Difference Between Piles, Fistula & Fissure
Hemorrhoids, or piles, are the swollen or enlarged veins located in the lower anal canal. These are not painful. Fissures can be very painful as they result from a tear or cut in skin close to the anus. Fistula refers to the tiny opening that forms in the skin near the anus. This opening contains pus.
Many people don’t know the difference. They think that if there is pain or bleeding in the anal area, it can pile. But, few know that it could also be fissures or fistula. They are not aware of the physical causes and symptoms of these diseases. Although some symptoms may seem confusing or similar, it is best to see a doctor immediately and receive the most appropriate treatment.
Although piles, fissures and fistula may not be taken as seriously by most people, they can have a significant impact on your daily life and lifestyle. This article explains the differences between the diseases and their symptoms.
What is Piles?
The inflammation of the veins in the anal tract is called hemorrhoid’s or piles. It can be caused by constipation, obesity and pregnancy.
There are two types of piles: internal and external hemorrhoid’s. These hemorrhoid’s can be found in every body. However, if they become abnormally large, they are considered abnormal. The internal hemorrhoid’s, which are located in the nerve fibers of the intestinalis, are not painful and cannot be felt. However, the hemorrhoid’s that protrude from your anus and bleed during hard stooling can be felt.
Pillows sufferers feel less pain but more bleeding. This is because of the weakening tissues (massive tissues containing blood vessels) in the skin of the rectum. The skin fills with blood, which causes it to swell up. High fiber and liquid intake is recommended and patients should consult their doctor as soon as possible. Consult with Piles Doctor in Kolkata to get relief from Piles
Also Read: Symptoms, Causes And Treatment Of Piles
What is Fistula?
Anal Fistula occurs in cases of anal abscess. It is a type opening in the anal that is filled with pus. An abscess can be caused by the infection of the small gland located in your anus.
Fistulas are a type of track that forms under the skin, connecting the infected gland to an abscess. Fistula can be caused by radiations, cancers, warts or trauma, Crohn’s disease, or other diseases related to the bowel. This is most common in obese people who sit for long periods of time in the same place. Dr. Azhar Alam is best Fistula Doctor in Kolkata who provides laser fistula treatment in Kolkata.
You may feel pain, redness, swelling and irritation around your anal canal. The fistula will then discharge the pus. This condition can be treated with antibiotics.
Also Read: Various Treatments For Anal Fistulas
What is Fissure?
Fissures are a painful tear or cut around the anus. This is when it becomes difficult to pass stool or constipation. We try to stretch the muscles and give pressures to the Sphincter muscles.
If proper medication is taken and a diet rich in fiber and liquids is followed, anal fissures can be treated within a few days. The fissure can become worse if the sphincter muscles are stretched or put under too much pressure. This could lead to bleeding and pus discharge.
The main causes of fissures are constipation, diarrhea, constipation, excessive exercise, and a low intake of liquids as well as a high-fiber diet. Treatment is now available in all medical sciences, including homoeopathy, Ayurveda, and allopathy. Although the fissure can be affected by anyone, it is most commonly noticed in those over 50. Consult with fissure doctor in Kolkata.
Acute and chronic fissures can be divided into two categories. Acute fissures can be treated quickly and healed with time. Chronic fissures require more attention and are more likely to recur. The medical assistance should be sought if the fissures don’t heal.
Also Read: Why Laser Treatment Is Good For Fissures?
Difference of Piles, Fistula & Fissure
COMPARISON | PILES | FISSURES | FISTULA |
Significance | Chronic constipation can cause swelling of the blood vessels in your anal canal. | Fissure, also known as Anal Fissure, is a type of crack found in the skin of anal canal. | Fistula, also known as Anal Fistula, is a small opening in anal canal. It is a kind of hole that is filled with pus. |
Signs | Pillows in the first place are usually not noticeable because they are painless. However, in later stages of their development swelling develops in the anal region and can become painful when felt. | It can cause severe pain in the anal region, so sufferers avoid using the toilet. However, bleeding is rare. | This is the most severe of the two. The pus is expelled from the anal area. |
Causes | Chronic cough, persistent constipation, and pregnancy. | Crohn’s disease, constipation, pregnancy, birth, and giving pressure to anus. | People with Crohn’s disease are obese. They sit in one spot for long periods of time, and constipation. |
Prevention | Drinking liquids and eating a high-fiber diet work well, although it is advised to not put too much pressure on the stool. | A proper diet with high fiber and liquids can help prevent fistula. | The best way to prevent infections in the anal canal is to practice good hygiene habits when using the toilets. |
Treatment | Pillows can be treated early with medications. However, it is important to eat enough liquid and a high-fiber diet to avoid constipation and pressure. | The treatment for the fissure is called Lateral Sphincterotomy and provides immediate relief. The fissure can be treated with medication and proper nutrition in the early stages. | It is important to determine the exact pathogenesis of fistula before imaging such as MRI or ultrasound (sonofistulagram). It can be treated using the various methods such as VAAFT (video-assisted fistula treatment), but another option is available. |
Contact the Pioneer Laser Surgeon in Kolkata Dr. Azhar Alam who provides best treatment for Piles, Fistula & Fissure in Kolkata
About Docor
Dr. Azhar Alam
MBBS (Honours), MRCS A (UK),
DNB General Surgery
FIAGES (Gastro Intestinal Surgery)
FMAS (Minimal Access Surgery),
MNAMS (New Delhi)
Consultant Gastrointestinal, Advanced Laparoscopic and Laser Surgeon
Assistant Professor of Surgery, KPC Medical College and Hospital