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An anal fistula is a small tunnel that forms between the skin near the anus and the inside of the anus or rectum. While many people tend to ignore early symptoms or ignore them as minor problems, an untreated anal fistula can lead to severe complications, affecting both physical health and quality of life.

Here’s what can happen if an anal fistula is left untreated:

Increased Risk of Infection: An anal fistula is usually the result of an abscess that did not heal properly. Left untreated, the infection can spread and worsen, leading to recurrent abscesses, which can be extremely painful and need more complex treatments.



Chronic Discomfort and Pain: An untreated anal fistula can cause persistent pain, discomfort, and a feeling of fullness in the rectal area. This discomfort often intensifies during bowel movements, sitting for long periods, or physical activity.

Abscess Formation: If the fistula remains untreated, the infection may spread deeper into the surrounding tissues, leading to the formation of more abscesses. This can create a vicious cycle of infection, abscess formation, and drainage, further complicating the condition. In some cases, abscesses may become large and require emergency intervention to drain them. Continuous abscesses can not only cause significant discomfort but may also improve the risk of systemic infections.



Fistula Enlargement and Complications: As the fistula remains untreated, it can grow larger, leading to more severe symptoms such as drainage of pus or blood, increased swelling, and inflammation. The longer the fistula remains untreated, the more difficult it becomes to treat effectively.

Fecal Incontinence: One of the most concerning long-term complications of an untreated anal fistula is the risk of fecal incontinence. The fistula can damage the muscles that control bowel movements, making it more difficult to control defecation and leading to unintentional leakage of stool.



Risk of Sepsis: If the infection from the fistula spreads into the bloodstream, it can cause sepsis, a life-threatening condition that can lead to organ failure and even death if not treated promptly.

Formation of Multiple Fistulas (Complex Fistula): In some cases, untreated anal fistulas can lead to the formation of more than one fistula, creating a complex fistula network that may require more extensive surgical intervention to treat effectively.



Recurrence of Symptoms After Treatment: An untreated fistula may lead to a higher chance of recurrence even after treatment. The longer the fistula persists, the greater the likelihood that it will return post-surgery.

Impact on Overall Health: If a fistula becomes infected and is left untreated, the infection can spread to other areas of the body, including the pelvic area. In rare cases, untreated fistulas can result in systemic infections, which can affect the overall health and lead to more severe complications.



When Should You See a Doctor?

If you notice symptoms such as pain, swelling, or drainage near your anus, it’s important to seek medical attention right away. An early diagnosis and timely intervention can help avoid the more severe complications associated with untreated anal fistulas.

Treatment Options for Anal Fistulas:

Dr. Samrat Jankar emphasizes that early diagnosis and treatment of anal fistulas are essential to avoid the complications noted above. Treatment options vary depending on the size, complexity, and location of the fistula. Common treatment methods include:

Fistulotomy: This surgical technique involves opening the fistula and allowing it to heal from the inside out. It’s generally effective for simple fistulas.

Seton Placement: A seton is a surgical thread placed inside the fistula to allow for drainage and gradual healing. This method is often used for more complex fistulas.

Fistulectomy: In cases where the fistula is extensive or complex, a fistulectomy may be required. This involves the complete removal of the fistula tract.

Flap Surgery: For large or deep fistulas, flap surgery may be necessary to repair the sphincter muscle and close the fistula.

Laser Treatment: In some cases, laser therapy can be used to treat fistulas, offering a minimally invasive option with a quicker recovery time.



Conclusion:

Ignoring an anal fistula can have severe and long-lasting consequences. Early detection and treatment are key to preventing complications such as chronic pain, infection, and fecal incontinence. If you suspect you have an anal fistula or are experiencing related symptoms, contact Dr. Samrat Jankar at Kaizen Fistula Care Clinic for expert care and treatment options.