Piles, fissures, and fistulas are all common anorectal conditions that can cause pain, discomfort, and bleeding.
- Piles, also known as hemorrhoids, are swollen veins in the rectum and anus. They can be internal, which means they are located inside the rectum, or external, which means they are located outside the anus.
- Fissures are small tears in the lining of the anus. They can be caused by constipation, diarrhea, or trauma.
- Fistulas are abnormal passages that connect the rectum or anus to another part of the body, such as the vagina, bladder, or skin. They can be caused by infection, inflammation, or trauma.
What are the Symptoms of Piles, Fissures, and Fistulas?
The symptoms of piles, fissures, and fistulas can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Some common symptoms include:
- Pain or discomfort in the rectum or anus
- Bleeding after a bowel movement
- Itching around the anus
- A feeling of fullness or pressure in the rectum
- A lump or bulge around the anus
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Rectal discharge
- Abdominal pain
What Causes Piles, Fissures, and Fistulas?
The exact cause of piles, fissures, and fistulas is unknown, but there are a number of factors that can increase your risk of developing them, including:
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Pregnancy
- Obesity
- Lifting heavy objects
- Straining during bowel movements
- Chronic coughing
- Weak pelvic muscles
- Inflammatory bowel disease
How are Piles, Fissures, and Fistulas Diagnosed?
Your doctor will usually be able to diagnose piles, fissures, and fistulas by examining your rectum and anus. In some cases, they may also perform a digital rectal examination (DRE), which involves inserting a lubricated finger into the rectum to feel for any abnormalities.
Other tests that may be used to diagnose piles, fissures, and fistulas include:
- Anal ultrasound: This test uses sound waves to create a picture of the rectum and anus.
- A colonoscopy: This test involves inserting a long, flexible tube with a camera on the end into the rectum and colon.
- A sigmoidoscopy: This test is similar to a colonoscopy, but the tube is shorter and only goes up the rectum and sigmoid colon.
How are Piles, Fissures, and Fistulas Treated?
The treatment for piles, fissures, and fistulas depends on the severity of the condition. In mild cases, home remedies, such as over-the-counter pain relievers, sitz baths, and dietary changes, may be all that is needed. For more severe cases, your doctor may recommend other treatments, such as:
- Injection therapy: This involves injecting a medication into the piles to shrink them.
- Banding therapy: This involves using rubber bands to tie off the piles, causing them to fall off.
- Hemorrhoidectomy: This is a surgical procedure to remove the piles.
- Fistulotomy: This is a surgical procedure to open up the fistula and allow it to heal from the inside out.
- Seton placement: This is a surgical procedure to place a rubber band around the fistula tract to keep it open and allow it to drain.
Dr. Hitender Suri
Dr. Hitender Suri is a renowned colorectal surgeon who specializes in the treatment of piles, fissures, and fistulas. He has over 20 years of experience in this field and has successfully treated thousands of patients. He is a highly skilled and experienced surgeon who uses the latest techniques and technologies to provide his patients with the best possible care. He is also a compassionate and caring doctor who is dedicated to helping his patients get back to their normal lives as quickly as possible.
If you are suffering from piles, fissures, or fistulas, I encourage you to see Dr. Hitender Suri. He is the best colorectal surgeon in the area and he will be able to help you get the relief you need.
