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What is Anal Fistula? Causes, Symptoms & Treatment Options

If you have been dealing with pain, swelling, or pus near the anus that keeps coming back, you may be suffering from a condition called anal fistula. It is commonly called bhagandar (Hindi and Punjabi). While it may sound scary, the good news is that it is a treatable problem, and you are not alone. Let us understand it step by step.

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What is a Fistula?

An anal fistula is a small tunnel or abnormal connection between the inside of the anal canal and the skin around the anus. It often develops after an infection or abscess (collection of pus) that did not heal properly.
Think of it like this: instead of healing and sealing, the infection creates a pathway from inside to outside. This tunnel can cause repeated discharge, pain, and discomfort

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What Causes a Fistula?

The most common cause of a fistula is an infected anal gland. These glands are present naturally inside the anal canal. When blocked, they can form an abscess, which may eventually burst or get drained, but instead of healing, it may leave a tunnel behind.

Other possible causes include:

  • • Crohn’s disease (a type of intestinal inflammation)
  • • Tuberculosis (rare in modern times)
  • • Previous surgery or trauma in the anal area
  • • Radiation therapy (rare)
  • • Sexually transmitted infections (less common)

But in most people, the cause is simply an untreated or deep abscess.

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What are the Symptoms?

Some of the most common signs of a fistula include:

  • Constant or on-and-off pus or discharge from a small opening near the anus
  • Pain or burning around the anus, especially when sitting
  • Swelling or redness
  • A recurring boil in the same area
  • Sometimes, mild bleeding
  • In rare cases, fever if the fistula gets infected

Can Fistula be Treated with Medicines?

Unfortunately, medicines alone usually cannot cure a fistula. Antibiotics may temporarily reduce the infection or discharge, but they do not close the tunnel or remove the root cause.
That is why many patients see temporary relief with medication, but the problem keeps coming back.

How is Fistula Treated?

The only permanent solution is surgical treatment, but do not worry, most procedures today are safe, effective, and minimally invasive.

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Common Treatment Options :

  • Fistulotomy – The fistula tract is opened and allowed to heal from the inside out. Best for simple fistulas.
  • Laser Surgery – A precise laser is used with minimal tissue damage.
  • VAAFT / Video-guided surgery – A tiny scope is used to visualize and treat the tract.
  • Seton Placement – A soft thread is placed to control infection before final surgery.
  • Hybrid Laser Techniques – Advanced methods combining lasers and specialized tools for complex cases.

Dr Kamal Gupta specializes in hybrid laser and sphincter-saving techniques that ensures faster healing, minimal pain, and less risk of incontinence. These techniques include Hybrid Laser techniques, VAAFT, Coring out of the tract with ProctoCor (A device patented in the name of Dr Kamal Gupta.)

Tips for Patients

  • Do not delay if you have repeated boils or pus discharge; get it checked.
  • Keep the anal area clean and dry.
  • Avoid excessive straining during bowel movements.
  • Eat a high-fiber diet and drink plenty of water to prevent constipation.
  • Discuss all options with a qualified proctologist.
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An anal fistula can be bothersome—but it does not have to control your life. With modern techniques, especially laser treatment, most patients recover smoothly and return to normal life quickly. If you suspect you have a fistula or are tired of repeated infections, do not suffer in silence. Early diagnosis and proper treatment can make all the difference.

For expert consultation and advanced fistula treatment options, visit Karan Hospital, Jalandhar. Dr. Kamal Gupta and his team offer the latest minimally invasive and laser solutions for fast and lasting recovery.

📞 Call:8725048415