Overview-
Fissure and Fistula in ano are very common problems nowadays due to the sedentary lifestyle. But what exactly is a Fissure or Fistula?
Trauma or damage to anal mucosa results in a superficial mucosal tear. This is known as Fissure-in-Ano.
Perianal abscesses develop between the internal and external anal sphincters and may point at the perianal skin, which gives rise to fistula-in-ano.
Symptoms-
Both the conditions are found in anal region, very painful and disturbing to our daily routine. Incase of fissure, the patient might feel a skin mass near the anus, with or without itching. While incase of fistula, the patient experiences pus discharge or fever.
Causes-
Ideally the increasing sedentary lifestyle, constipation and indigestion are the cause for both. Repeated formation of pustules or abscesses near anus can give rise to fistulas, on the other hand, repeated diarrhea or constipation causes fissures.
Diagnosis-
You need to consult a Doctor when you observe blood or pus in your toilet sink or in your tissue paper after pooping, feel a soft mass outside the anus, severe pain in or near the anal region, mild itching in anal area and fever.
Complications-
Anemia
Sepsis
Anal stricture
Treatment -
Ayurveda offers many wonderful medicines extracted from the plants and the minerals in earth for both conditions.
Also Panchakarma treatments like Gud Puran, Basti are also beneficial. Letting medicated oils through the anus targeting the Gudavalis(Distal parts of rectum) is Gudpuran. Whereas letting medicated oils or decoctions through the anus targeting the intestineis called Basti. Ghrutpan( intake of medicated ghee) is also advanced after examining the avastha (stage).Further treatments to avoid surgery will be given after consulting the experts at Ojas Herbal Ayurveda and Panchakarma. Prevention Maintenance of a good anal hygiene, Balanced and fiber rich diet, Doing stretches and asanas for anal muscles, Taking break after every half an hour of screen time, Using a soft pillow on a chair for sitting.