$Unique_ID{BRK01405}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{Are Fissure and Fistula the Same Thing?}
$Subject{fissure fistula treatment digestive system anal fissures fistulas
rectum anus constipation anorectal glands abscess abscesses digestion
constipated diarrhea}
$Volume{I-13}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Are Fissure and Fistula the Same Thing?


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QUESTION:  When discussing my problem, the physician didn't seem to describe a
fissure in a different way than he discussed a fistula.  Am I correct in
assuming they are just about the same thing?

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ANSWER:  Both anal fissures and anal fistulas cause pain to the rectum and
anus, but that is where their similarity ends.
     An anal fissure is an open vertical tear or wound that is usually located
in a straight line along the back wall of the anus.  In most cases, it is
caused by passing a large hard stool, but fissures can also be caused by
severe diarrhea.  Fissures are painful, especially during and immediately
after a bowel movement.  This pain causes sufferers to try to avoid bowel
movements, which in turn aggravates constipation.  There may be some bleeding
during the bowel movement, but it is not profuse.
     The way to treat anal fissures is to lubricate the anal canal and avoid
constipation.  The best lubricant is a nonmedicated emollient suppository.  A
good way to soften stools is to eat a high fiber diet and perhaps take a fiber
supplement.  Chronic fissures may need to be surgically corrected.
     Anal fistulas are abnormal tracts connecting the inner surface of the
anus to the skin.  They are the result of an abscess, or acute infection, in
one of the anorectal glands that surround and open into the anus.
     An unopened swollen abscess is one cause of anal pain.  The anal fistula
is usually painless, except before the abscess opens, and may heal by itself
after the abscess drains.  An unopened abscess should be drained completely by
a physician.  In most cases, antibiotics are not needed.  Once the abscess is
drained the fistula may disappear, but chronic fistulas which can develop
should be removed surgically, even when they cause no pain or symptoms.
     As you can see, chronic anal pain should not be left undiagnosed and
untreated, and this condition warrants a physician's attention.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.