Anal fistula and anal abscess

What are anal fistulas and anal abscesses?

Anal fistulas are unnatural passageways that form between the anal canal and the skin around the anus. Usually, these tracts form due to inflammation of special glands in the anal canal, the proctodeal glands. In humans, they are now only partially developed and present in individual numbers. They can even be completely absent. Anal fistulas often develop as a result of an anal abscess. However, there are also other causes of anal fistulas, such as chronic inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.

What are the symptoms of an anal fistula?

Anal fistulas can cause pain at the anus, secretion discharge, bleeding, itching, symptoms of inflammation such as fever, redness, warmth, and swelling of the anal region, as well as possibly bloating or stool passage. It is recommended to see a doctor if such symptoms occur, as a fistula usually does not heal on its own.

What causes anal fistulas?

Anal fistulas often develop as a result of an anal abscess, which arises from a purulent, bacteria-caused inflammation. Actually, anal fistula and anal abscess are the same disease. The anal abscess is associated with a encapsulated collection of pus and corresponds to the acute variant. The anal fistula, on the other hand, is the chronic variant, where the purulent fluid drains through a skin opening.

What risk factors are there for anal fistulas?

According to recent studies, there are some risk factors believed to promote anal fistulas. These include, for example, the following:

• an excessively high consumption of heavily spiced foods
• lack of exercise, prolonged sitting
• prolonged sitting on the toilet during bowel movements
• smoking
• Alcoholism
• Lipid metabolism disorders
• Stress
• Overweight (obesity)
• Diabetes (diabetes mellitus)
• Skin diseases
• increased daily salt intake

How can one distinguish between an anal fistula, anal abscess, and cryptitis? 

The Cryptitis, which Anal fistula and the anal abscess  are different forms of the same disease entity, with clearly distinguishable symptoms. A Cryptitis this is often still the reversible initial stage. The Anal fistula on the other hand corresponds more to the chronic course and in a Anal abscess this is the acute and significant worsening of symptoms. An abscess is a short-term event that always requires medical or even surgical intervention. A Cryptitis manifests as dull discomfort at the anus, possibly also with pus discharge. While patients with Anal fistula often complain of milder symptoms, patients with abscesses experience pronounced pain in the anus.

How are anal fistulas treated?

Anal fistulas usually do not heal on their own. Treatment generally consists of surgery, for which there are various approaches. Which procedure the doctors choose depends on the type and course of the fistula. Without surgical treatment, there is a risk that the fistula will become inflamed and pus will form. The well-being and overall quality of life of those affected also suffer as a result.

How do CANNEFF® SUP suppositories work in the treatment of anal fistulas?

CANNEFF® SUP suppositories for rectal use can relieve symptoms of anal fistulas and support the healing process. Even after colorectal surgeries, CANNEFF® SUP suppositories can help you support the recovery process and minimize discomfort. For the usually slow wound healing and recovery process after colorectal surgeries, such as the surgical removal of anal abscesses, CANNEFF® SUP offers support during recovery.

“For more than three years, I was diagnosed with a complex anal fistula. My wife recommended CANNEFF SUP suppositories for treatment, and thanks to this medical product, the fistula was significantly reduced. After the postoperative phase, the doctors told me it would take more than three months for the open wound to close. With renewed use of CANNEFF SUP, it only took 45 days for it to fully close. It is an innovative product, wonderful and very pleasant to use. I recommend it to anyone suffering from anal diseases.”

Luis O.