What is Fistula?

A fistula is an abnormal connection that forms between two organs or vessels that are lined with epithelial cells. Fistulas are generally the result of a disease condition but artificial fistulas may also be surgically created for therapy.

Examples of naturally occurring fistulas are those that form between the anus and an opening in the skin (anal fistula) or between the intestine and the vagina (enterovaginal fistula). An artificial fistula may be created, for example, between an artery and vein (arteriovenous fistula) when a person needs renal dialysis.

• Anal Rectal abscess is a collection of pus in the area of the anus or/and rectum.
• Fistula  in ano is a tunnel like pipe, an infected track, abnormal connection between two different points in intestines, often deep within the body, to the skins surface, i.e. between rectum internally and peri anal skin externally.
• Definitive KSHARA-SUTRA / VARTI THERAPY to eradicate the fistula is required at a later date for complete healing.

Anal fistula is an abnormal connection or a tunnel between the anus and the other organs like urethra. Anal fistula originates from anal glands situated between two layers of anal sphincter and into the anal canal. These glands can get infected and form abscess. This may burst and form abnormal to exit pus known as fistula. Ayurveda has a better solution for anal fistula.

Causes of Fistula :

1. Complication of medical conditions such as crohn ’ s disease, irritable bowel syndrome, ulcer.
2. Anal fissures, hemorrhoids (piles)  
3. Complication from surgery
4. Low immunity
5. Injury or trauma to anal canal

Signs and symptoms of Fistula :

1. Purulent or bloody discharge
2. Pain at the anal region
3. Local swelling
4. Itching and irritation around anus
5. Fever
6. Generalized weakness 

Ayurvedic classification and specific symptoms : :

1. Vataj (shataponaka) - 
• Foam like discharge
• With many openings
  
  
2. Pittaj (ushtragriva) -
• Offensive and hot discharge
• With long curved tract
  
  
3. Kaphaj (parisravi) - 
• Continuous dense whitish discharge
• Mild pain 
• Itching
  
  
4. Sannipataj (shambukavarta)- 
• Multiple type of discharge
• Various types of pain 
• Circular tract in horse shoe shaped fistula
  
  
5. Aagantuj  (unmargi)- 
• Due to trauma or injury
• If untreated then form multiple openings 
  
  
6. Diagnosis  - 
• Diagnosis of anal fistula can be confirmed by following procedures.
• Physical examination
• Digital rectal examination
• Anal ultrasound
• MRI scan
• CT scan
  

Ayurvedic approach and treatment for Fistula -

Anal fistula is a disease which has frequent recurrence. Conventional medicines have little scope for its treatment. Some people think surgery is the only treatment for anal fistula. But Ayurveda has very good solution for anal fistula. Depending upon the progress and condition of the disease, it can avoid or lessen the need of surgery.

Ayurveda gives relief from symptoms such as pain, discharge, itching sensation at anus. These medicines can help to decrease severity of disease.

Low immunity is an important factor to get recurrent infections. This recurrence should be reduced or stopped completely by improving immunity. Ayurveda offers certain drug which help to boost the immunity. It also helps to reduce susceptibility of person against infections.