Many might not realize that without finding proper anal fissure treatment in Calgary, they can end up with anal fistulas. Yet, what exactly are anal fistulas? Learn what they are here and see how you can treat them.
Anal fistulas are a common medical problem that is an infection in the anal glands – especially those with chronic anal fissures. Those who have failed to receive anal fissure treatment in Calgary can result in a sentinel pile and permanent skin tag, where anal fistulas may form.
The anal canal is the last part of the large intestine, where stool is held before it leaves the body through the rectum and anus. Most often, anal fistulas are caused by an infection in the anal glands. The abscess is a sac containing pus that forms when tissues become infected.
Anal fistulas can also be caused by other disorders such as Crohn’s disease, diverticulitis, or sexually transmitted infections such as herpes or syphilis.
Treatment for anal fistulas usually involves antibiotics to clear the infection and surgery to remove the tunnel. Surgery involves making a small cut in the skin over the anal fistula, which allows your surgeon to see inside.
During this procedure, your surgeon will locate the end of the anal fistula and make a small cut to open it up. It will allow the anal fistula to heal from the inside out.
In most cases, anal fistula surgery successfully reduces pain and discomfort. There are a few risks associated with this type of surgery. Still, they are typically minor and can be easily managed. If you are suffering from an anal fissure, talk to your doctor about whether anal fistula surgery is right for you.
In some cases, a seton (a type of suture) may be placed through your anal fistula, which helps it heal by keeping it open while preventing it from narrowing or re-closing again.
Surgery may also be needed if you have an abscess that has not responded to antibiotics or if your anal fistula is complex (has more than one opening or track).
However, if these treatments do not work, surgery may be necessary to remove the anal fissure.
After your surgery, you will likely need to take sitz baths (sitting in a few inches of warm water) 3-4 times per day. Use topical medications such as zinc oxide ointment or petroleum jelly for 3-4 weeks until your incisions have healed properly. It is also essential to keep your incisions clean and dry by gently patting them dry after each sitz bath or shower-do not rub! It would be best to avoid constipation by eating a high-fibre diet and drinking plenty of fluids throughout the day. Stool softeners may also be recommended if needed.
Award-winning, innovative and passionate, N.A. Hemorrhoids Centre is a hemorrhoid clinic in Calgary offering reliable hemorrhoid treatment. As hemorrhoid specialists, we can treat anal fissures, anal fistulas, anal abscesses, anal itching and more. As a naturopathic hemorrhoid clinic with an international reach, our services are the right solution to treat your sensitive and uncomfortable concerns. Contact us today at 403-796-7551 for more information or to book your appointment.