Common Anorectal Diseases - Know Their Symptoms And Treatment Options!

Anorectal diseases, affect the rectum or the muscles surrounding the analregion. Some of these conditions can be difficult to live with, as the symptoms interfere with everyday life. Here is a look at two of the most common anorectal diseases, their symptoms, and their treatment.

Anal fistula
Anal fistula is an unnatural tunnel formation between the anus and a portion of the surrounding skin. It is usually caused due to an infection or blockage in the anal cavity. Here are some common symptoms associated with anal fistulas-

• Sharp pain originating near the fistula
• Redness of the skin around the affected region
• Anal swelling
• Bleeding
• Pain during bowel movements
• Fever

If you have anal fistula, you need to seek immediate treatment. Here are some forms of treatment used to manage the condition-

1. No medication is able to treat the condition and surgery is the only available option.
2. If the fistula is not too close to the anus, doctors will simply cut open the tunnel formed inside and let the body heal on its own.
3. A plug may be inserted to close off the tunnel
4. In some cases, a tube like instrument is inserted into the fistula tunnel to drain out the waste material prior to the surgical procedure.

Anal fissure
A small tear or cut in the lining of the anus is known as an anal fissure. Often, such a tear causes discomfort and bleeding during bowel movement. Its symptoms include-

1. A tear near the anus, which is visible to the naked eye
2. Sharp pain during bowel movement
3. Burning or itching sensation in the anal region
4. Bright red stools.

Here is a look at the treatment options open to you, if you suffer from anal fissure-

1. Laxatives and stool softeners
2. Changing the diet to include more fibrous foods
3. Submerge your anus and affected region in warm water. This is known as a sitz bath.
4. Nitroglycerin ointment is applied to the tear to increase blood flow to the area.

Consult a surgeon immediately if you notice signs of either of these disorders near your anal region. The doctor will advise you regarding the treatment.