Information about the difference between hemorrhoids and anal fistulas and their symptoms. The difference between them is not limited to symptoms alone, but also extends to the causes and appropriate treatment methods. Hemorrhoids are swollen and inflamed veins in the rectum and anus, while anal fistulas are passageways connecting the anal canal to the skin surrounding the anus. We will learn about the difference between the two conditions, their symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and effective treatment methods.
What are hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids are enlarged blood vessels surrounding the anus. They are caused by chronic constipation, excessive pressure during defecation, and pregnancy. They cause itching and bleeding.
What is an anal fistula
An anal fistula is a channel or passageway connecting the anal canal to the skin surrounding the anus. It is often the result of a chronic infection or a previous abscess in the anal glands, causing pain, swelling, persistent discharge, and pus.
Symptoms of Hemorrhoids and Fistulas
Hemorrhoid symptoms may vary depending on whether they are external or internal. Symptoms of internal hemorrhoids include:
- Bleeding during bowel movements, which may include bright red blood in the stool.
- Hemorrhoids protrude from the anus during bowel movements.
- Internal hemorrhoids rarely cause pain unless they prolapse.
Symptoms of external hemorrhoids include:
- A blood clot may form inside the hemorrhoid (external hemorrhoid), making it painful and swollen.
- A painful or swollen lump forms around the anus.
Symptoms of anal fistulas:
- Pus- or bloody discharge.
- Difficulty and pain during bowel movements.
- Pain and itching in the anal area.
Causes of hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids develop as a result of increased pressure on the veins in the anus and rectum during bowel movements. Chronic constipation or diarrhea are common causes of hemorrhoids, as are prolonged sitting, especially on the toilet.
During pregnancy and childbirth, the fetus's weight increases and puts pressure on the pelvic area. Hormonal changes can also lead to weak veins, obesity, and a low-fiber diet.
What are the causes of fistulas
- Anal abscesses are the most common cause.
- Inflammatory bowel diseases such as colitis and Crohn's disease.
- Blockage in the anal glands can lead to the formation of an abscess, which later develops into a fistula.
- Surgery in the pelvic area can cause fistulas.
- Radiation therapy can cause tissue damage, leading to the development of a fistula in the pelvic area.
What is the difference between hemorrhoids and fistulas
Hemorrhoids are enlarged blood vessels surrounding the anus, while a fistula is an abnormal channel resulting from chronic inflammation or an abscess. Knowing the differences between them will help you make the right decision and begin appropriate treatment.
How to Get Rid of Hemorrhoids
A quick treatment that hemorrhoid sufferers rely on is laser therapy, which cauterizes and removes the hemorrhoids. Other medical procedures, such as rubber band ligation, can also be used to close and shrink the blood vessels.
Treatments to Get Rid of Hemorrhoid Pain Quickly
Home remedies that help provide quick relief from annoying hemorrhoid pain:
- Sit in a warm bath for 15-20 minutes several times a day.
- Apply ice packs for 10 minutes several times a day to reduce swelling.
- Use topical creams and ointments that temporarily relieve pain and itching, as they contain ingredients such as hydrocortisone, witch hazel, or lidocaine.
How to Treat a Fistula
Treatment for a fistula depends largely on its type and location, and often requires surgery to remove the fistula tract and open it to drain the secretions.
In complex cases, a seton wick is placed to partially drain the fistula before performing a final repair or laser treatment to remove the abnormal fistula tissue.
Home Fistula Treatment
There is no definitive home treatment for fistulas, but symptoms can be alleviated by:
- Using a donut-shaped pillow while sitting.
- Sitting in a warm bath for 10-15 minutes several times a day.
- Taking pain relievers containing paracetamol or ibuprofen.
- Drinking adequate fluids to soften stools and facilitate passage.
- Following a high-fiber diet.
- Regular cleaning of the affected area is important to prevent the infection from worsening.
How to Diagnose Hemorrhoids and Fistulas
Although both cause similar symptoms, such as oozing, swelling, and pain, medical diagnostic methods differ.
- Diagnosis of hemorrhoids is straightforward and relies on the use of a proctoscope in cases of internal hemorrhoids and a clinical examination in cases of external hemorrhoids. This allows the doctor to determine the severity of the hemorrhoids.
- Diagnosing an anal fistula requires a careful assessment of the internal and external fistula tract. Transanal ultrasound or MRI is often used to accurately determine the fistula's path.
Summary of the difference between hemorrhoids and fistulas
Hemorrhoids are swollen and inflamed veins in the anus or rectum. They are caused by excessive pressure during defecation, chronic constipation, or pregnancy, and cause bleeding and anal itching.
An anal fistula is an abnormal channel connecting the anal canal to the skin surrounding the anus. It often develops as a result of a chronic infection or previous abscess in the anal glands, causing swelling and pain, along with persistent pus and discharge.