Piles, Fistula, Fissure

These are common conditions affecting the anal and rectal regions. Each condition has unique causes, symptoms, and treatments, but they often require the expertise of a general surgeon for diagnosis and management.

1. Piles (Hemorrhoids)

Piles are swollen and inflamed veins in the rectum and anus. They can be internal (inside the rectum) or external (under the skin around the anus).

Symptoms:

• Bleeding during bowel movements (bright red blood).
• Itching, discomfort, or pain around the anus.
• Swelling or lumps near the anus.
• Mucus discharge or difficulty cleaning after bowel movements.

Causes:

• Chronic constipation or diarrhea.
• Straining during bowel movements.
• Prolonged sitting, especially on the toilet.
• Pregnancy (increased pressure on pelvic veins).
• Obesity or a low-fiber diet.

2. Fistula (Anal Fistula)

An anal fistula is an abnormal tunnel connecting the anal canal to the skin around the anus, often resulting from an abscess or infection.

Symptoms:

• Pain or swelling near the anus.
• Persistent discharge of pus or blood.
• Recurrent abscesses.
• Foul-smelling drainage.
• Irritation or redness around the anus.

Causes:

• Anal abscesses or infections.
• Crohn’s disease or inflammatory bowel disease.
• Tuberculosis or sexually transmitted infections (rare).
• Trauma or previous surgery in the area.

3. Fissure (Anal Fissure)

A fissure is a small tear or crack in the lining of the anus, often caused by trauma during bowel movements.

Symptoms:

• Sharp, burning pain during and after defecation.
• Bright red blood on toilet paper or in the stool.
• A visible crack or tear near the anus.
• Spasms of the anal sphincter.

Causes:

• Passing hard or large stools.
• Chronic constipation or diarrhea.
• Straining during bowel movements.
• Anal trauma (e.g., childbirth).
• Underlying conditions like Crohn’s disease.

When to See a General Surgeon

• Persistent pain or bleeding.
• Recurrent infections or discharge.
• No relief with conservative treatments.
• Severe discomfort affecting daily life.

Dr. Abhijit Budhkar is skilled in diagnosing and treating these conditions, using the latest techniques for effective relief and prevention of recurrence.