Fistula

A fistula is an abnormal connection between two organs or vessels that normally have no connection. These fistulas can occur in many different body parts but most commonly occur in the digestive tract.

Fistulas can be congenital, present at birth or acquired later in life. Acquired fistulas are most often the result of injury, infection, or surgery. Fistula can have varied symptoms depending on their location, and the most common are:

• Foul-smelling pus discharge
• Painful and itchy skin
• Frequent urination
• Tenderness around the anus.
• Change in bowel habits, such as constipation or diarrhoea

Fistulas can be extremely painful and uncomfortable. It is important to see a doctor as soon as possible. But before that, understand everything related to fistula-like types and how we can prevent them.

The Most Common Fistulas Are:

• Anal fistula: A hole in the anus that allows stool or waste products to pass through into another part of your body. This can cause pain, itching, and irritation.
• Vaginal fistula: A hole through which urine collects when you have no control over urinating or passing blood in your vagina; this usually happens after childbirth or surgery on the bladder/uterus.
• Rectovaginal fistula :occurs when there is an opening between two membranes.

Fistulas are often treatable with surgery or medication. If your fistula is small enough to treat without surgery, your doctor may immediately prescribe antibiotics so that your healing begins at the earliest.

The surgical procedure includes fistulotomy and ligation of the intersphincteric fistula tract(LIFT). The whole of the fistula is cut, and it heals, resulting in a scar formation. This surgery takes about one to two hours to complete. The recovery time depends on the extent of the fistula. However, it may range from one - two weeks before you can return to a normal routine, and it will take a few months for it to heal completely.

You Should Also Follow a Few Measures to Help You Recover Faster and Avoid Complications.

• You should avoid spicy and sour foods, which could cause discomfort
• Eat fruits and drink plenty of water to help keep your body hydrated since dehydration can slow down the healing process.
• If you have a fistula and suffer from constipation, you should also consider adding fibre to your diet. Fibre can help make stools softer and easier to pass through the rectum.
• You must talk with your doctor if you're experiencing constipation after fistula surgery. They may recommend taking a stool softener to help prevent straining during bowel movements.
• Avoid hot food. Patients with fistulas should avoid eating hot foods or drinking hot beverages like tea and coffee because this can increase the pressure in their colons, making it more likely for them to develop an infection from bacteria that live there.

In conclusion, a fistula is a serious medical condition that can have a negative impact on a person's quality of life. If you are experiencing these symptoms then it is important to see Dr. Abhijit Whatkar as soon as possible. With proper treatment, most people with a fistula can live normal, healthy lives.