Piles is a situation where tissues and blood vessels in the anal area, especially near the anal opening, become larger. Risk factors include constipation and multiple vaginal births. Symptoms of piles include blood in the stool, painful bowel movements, a painful lump around the anus that can be felt, mucus discharge from the anal area due to pus, itching, pain, and red skin nearby. A high-fibre diet and staying well-hydrated can aid in preventing piles. Surgery might be the most effective choice for full recovery.
A fissure is a tear in the sensitive skin around the anus. Fissures can develop if you frequently pass hard stool, which cuts the skin in that area. Factors like Crohn's disease, pregnancy, constipation, straining during bowel movements, and sitting on the toilet for too long can also cause fissures. Symptoms of fissures include a tear near the anus, a small lump nearby, pain during bowel movements, noticing blood on the toilet paper, and feeling itching or burning in that area. To prevent fissures, make sure to drink enough water and maintain a balanced diet. Treatment options for fissures include open fissure surgery and laser sphincterotomy.
Fistulas are openings that join an abscess with an infected gland. Anal fistulas can show up as signs such as soreness, redness, discharge of foul-smelling pus, and swelling around the anus. You might also experience bleeding, uncomfortable bowel movements, and fever. It's recommended to consult a doctor if you face these situations.
