Anal pain causes of tingling and burning in the buttocks and how to treat them naturally
Have you ever felt a tingling or burning sensation around your anus or buttocks? If you're dealing with this issue, you're not alone. Tingling and burning in the anal area are common symptoms that can cause significant discomfort, and they may result from various underlying causes such as hemorrhoids, anal fissures, or even digestive issues.In this article from Dalili Medical, we’ll explore the potential reasons behind these annoying symptoms and how to manage them effectively using natural and medical treatments that help relieve pain and irritation. Let’s dive into the details and discover the solutions that can help you overcome this problem and get back to your daily life with complete comfort.
Causes of Tingling in the Rectal and Anal Area
The rectum is a part of the digestive system, extending from the lower end of the large intestine to the anus. When you feel tingling in this area, it can result from various medical reasons. Below are some of the most common causes of tingling or burning in the anal region:
1. Skin Irritation or Allergies
This is one of the simplest causes of burning or tingling around the anus. It can result from excessive sweating, tight or inappropriate underwear, or poor hygiene.
Treatment: Gentle cleansing with mild skincare products, applying soothing creams (like those used for diaper rash), and in more severe cases with sores, anti-inflammatory ointments may be needed.
2. Constipation
Constipation is a common cause of rectal tingling. It occurs when bowel movements are difficult or infrequent, causing pain during defecation. It may also be associated with lower back pain and swollen veins in the anal area.
Treatment: Improve your diet by increasing fiber and water intake, and use doctor-approved laxatives to ease bowel movements.
3. Anal Fissures
These are small tears in the anal tissue, often causing pain, tingling, itching, and light bleeding during defecation.
Treatment: Application of topical ointments to reduce pain and irritation. In persistent cases, minor surgical procedures might be required.
4. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
IBS can cause alternating constipation and diarrhea, which may lead to rectal tingling and frequent abdominal pain.
Treatment: Monitor your diet, avoid foods that trigger symptoms, and take medications that regulate bowel movements.
5. Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids are swollen and inflamed veins around the anus, either internal or external. They often cause pain, tingling, severe itching, and bleeding during bowel movements.
Treatment: Depends on severity—may include topical treatments (creams or ointments) or surgical intervention in advanced cases.
6. Anal Fistula
An anal fistula is a small tunnel that forms between the end of the bowel and the skin near the anus. It causes bacterial buildup and inflammation, leading to painful abscesses, tingling, burning, and possibly pus or blood discharge during defecation.
Treatment: Requires urgent medical attention to drain the abscess and may need surgery to treat the fistula permanently.
Symptoms of Tingling in the Rectal and Anal Area
Tingling and discomfort in the anus and rectum may vary in type and intensity. Here are the most common symptoms and their causes:
Sudden Tingling Sensation
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Feels like a sharp pinch or electric shock.
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Comes and goes quickly.
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Often triggered by sitting or certain positions.
Causes: Pelvic muscle tension, internal hemorrhoids, or muscle spasms.
Severe Anal Itching
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Worse at night or after a bowel movement.
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May include discharge or redness.
Causes: Fungal infections, skin irritation, intestinal worms, or poor hygiene.
Burning or Stinging Sensation
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Typically after bowel movements or wiping.
Common Causes: Anal fissures, hemorrhoids, or frequent diarrhea.
Sharp Pain During or After Bowel Movement
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Feels like a cut, may last minutes to hours.
Causes: Anal fissures or severe constipation.
Bleeding With Stool
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Bright red blood on toilet paper or mixed with stool.
Causes: Hemorrhoids or anal fissures.
Note: Dark blood or internal pain requires immediate medical attention.
Lump or Swelling Near the Anus
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May be felt when touching the area.
Causes: -
Soft lump with mild pain: External hemorrhoids.
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Painful and hot lump: Anal abscess.
Mucus or Clear Discharge
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On underwear or in the stool.
Causes: Rectal inflammation or anal fistula.
If foul-smelling, it may indicate a bacterial infection.
Night-Time Rectal Cramps or Spasms
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Sudden, painful tightening in the anus, may wake you from sleep.
Also Known As: Proctalgia fugax.
Note: Not dangerous but very uncomfortable.
Constant Pressure or Fullness in Rectum
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Feels like something is stuck.
Causes: Chronic constipation, inflammation, or internal hemorrhoids.
Pus or Yellow/Green Discharge
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Often with anal abscess or fistula.
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May include throbbing pain, redness, and heat.
Cause: Bacterial infection.
Redness or Swelling Around Anus
May result from:
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Thrombosed hemorrhoids (clot inside hemorrhoid).
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Skin abscess.
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Irritation or infection.
Gas Incontinence or Difficulty Controlling Flatulence
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Inability to control passing gas.
Causes: Weak anal muscles, chronic inflammation, or post-surgical effects.
Chronic Constipation or Incomplete Evacuation
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Feeling that your bowels aren’t fully emptied.
Causes: Large internal hemorrhoids, anal canal narrowing, or motility disorders.
Pain Spreading to Genitals or Lower Back
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Can be due to:
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Pelvic floor muscle inflammation.
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Internal abscess.
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Nerve inflammation or lower spine problems.
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Sticky Mucus With or Without Stool
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Often linked to:
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Rectal inflammation.
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IBS.
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Polyps or benign tumors.
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Frequent Urge to Defecate Without Output
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Urgency with little or no stool passed.
Causes: Rectal inflammation, internal mass or foreign body.
Burning After Intercourse (in some cases)
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Can occur due to:
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Unhealed anal fissure.
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Skin or fungal infections.
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Allergic reactions to cleaning products or lubricants.
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Types of Tingling in the Anal and Rectal Area
Tingling sensations in the anal and rectal region can vary in type and intensity, with each form indicating different underlying causes. Below are the most common types and their possible explanations:
Sudden Tingling Like a Needle Prick or Electric Shock
Sensation: Sharp and quick, like a sting or sudden jolt.
When it happens: May appear suddenly during sitting, bowel movements, or without any clear trigger.
Possible causes:
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Pelvic floor muscle spasm (pudendal neuralgia or proctalgia fugax)
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Early signs of internal inflammation
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Tension in pelvic muscles
Persistent Tingling with Burning Sensation
Sensation: Ongoing and irritating, often accompanied by itching or a feeling of heat.
Possible causes:
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Anal fissure
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Internal or external hemorrhoids
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Skin irritation or allergy (contact dermatitis)
Tingling with Nighttime Itching
Sensation: Worsens during sleep or bedtime.
Possible causes:
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Pinworm infection (common in children and adults)
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Fungal infection around the anus
Tingling with Throbbing or Pulsing Pain
Sensation: A painful "pulsing" or beating sensation deep inside.
Possible causes:
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Anal abscess or fistula
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Rectal or anal gland inflammation
Tingling After a Bowel Movement
Sensation: Occurs right after passing stool, sometimes with a burning feeling.
Possible causes:
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Anal fissure
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Skin irritation due to friction
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Use of rough or dry toilet paper
Tingling Only While Sitting
Sensation: Appears during prolonged sitting, and improves with movement.
Possible causes:
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Hemorrhoids or venous congestion
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Poor pelvic circulation
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Pressure on nearby nerves
Deep Internal Tingling in the Rectum
Sensation: Felt deep inside the rectum, not on the skin surface.
Possible causes:
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Rectal inflammation (proctitis)
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Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
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Early signs of polyps or rectal wall issues
Tingling with Pressure or Internal Fullness
Sensation: Feels like something is pressing or inflating inside the rectum.
Possible causes:
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Enlarged internal hemorrhoids
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Stool or gas retention
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Inflammation or IBS
Tingling with a Crawling or Moving Sensation
Sensation: Feels like a worm or something moving inside the rectum.
Possible causes:
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Intestinal worms (e.g., pinworms)
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Nerve-related disorders in the pelvic area
Tingling After Sexual Activity
Sensation: Appears after intercourse or sexual stimulation.
Possible causes:
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Vascular congestion
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Minor anal tear (not easily visible)
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Pelvic muscle tension or local sensitivity
Chronic Tingling that Comes in Episodes
Sensation: Occurs in short episodes and then fades away.
Possible causes:
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Proctalgia fugax (episodic spasm of the levator ani muscle)
Tingling with Numbness in the Buttocks or Thighs
Sensation: Starts from the anal area and extends to the buttocks or legs.
Possible causes:
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Sciatic nerve compression or pelvic nerve pressure
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Lower lumbar spine issues
Tingling with Severe Anal Muscle Spasm
Sensation: Feels like the anal muscles are suddenly "locked" and hard to relax.
Possible causes:
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Psychological tension or anxiety
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IBS
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Pelvic floor dysfunction
Tingling Associated with Hard Stool or Constipation
Sensation: Occurs during or after passing dry, hard stools.
Possible causes:
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Mild anal fissure
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Early-stage hemorrhoids or local inflammation
Causes of Burning Sensation in the Buttocks
A burning sensation in the buttocks can be quite uncomfortable and may result from various causes, ranging from minor and easily treatable conditions to more serious issues that require medical attention. Here are the main causes:
Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
Sensation: The burning may be felt internally or externally around the anal area.
Explanation: Bacterial or viral infections in the urinary tract can cause symptoms that extend to the anal region.
Treatment: Treat the underlying infection with antibiotics or other appropriate medications.
Allergic Reaction to Scented Soaps
Sensation: Mild to severe burning after using scented soap or chemical-based products in sensitive areas.
Explanation: Some soaps or perfumed products contain chemicals that irritate the sensitive skin of the anal area.
Treatment: Avoid such products and use anti-allergic creams to soothe the skin.
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
Sensation: Burning caused by infections such as chlamydia or HIV.
Explanation: Certain STIs can lead to ulcers or inflammation in the anal area, resulting in a burning sensation.
Treatment: A proper medical diagnosis is crucial, followed by treatment tailored to the specific infection.
Fungal Infections
Sensation: Burning accompanied by a foul smell, greenish discharge, or white flakes.
Explanation: Fungal infections in the anal area can lead to irritation and require prompt treatment.
Treatment: Antifungal medications are the appropriate solution.
Parasitic Infections
Sensation: Burning in the anal area, often caused by pinworms—common in children.
Explanation: Parasites can irritate the area, leading to itching and burning.
Treatment: A rectal examination followed by appropriate medication to eliminate the parasites.
Rectal Cancer
Sensation: Painful burning in the anal area, often accompanied by bleeding, changes in stool size, and loss of appetite.
Explanation: Rectal cancer involves abnormal cell growth in the rectum or anus, causing intense burning and other symptoms.
Treatment: Requires urgent medical diagnosis and treatment by a specialist.
Harmful Habits That Cause Tingling and Burning in the Anus
Apart from medical conditions, certain everyday habits may contribute to tingling or burning sensations in the anal region. Here are some of the most common ones:
Excessive Caffeine Consumption
Effect: Large amounts of caffeine, especially in the morning, can disrupt bowel habits, causing alternating constipation and diarrhea—leading to burning or tingling.
Advice: Reduce caffeine intake and avoid consuming it on an empty stomach to minimize digestive irritation.
Eating Constipation-Inducing Foods
Effect: Low-fiber foods like processed meals or fast food can cause constipation, leading to tingling or pain in the anal area—sometimes even bleeding.
Advice: Eat fiber-rich foods such as salads, vegetables, and fruits, and drink plenty of water to support healthy bowel movement.
Eating Spicy Foods
Effect: Spicy food can cause a burning sensation in the anal area, especially when eaten on an empty stomach.
Advice: Consume spicy food in moderation and avoid having it on an empty stomach to reduce symptoms.
Wearing Non-Cotton Underwear
Effect: Synthetic fabrics can cause sweating and irritation in the anal area, increasing moisture and the risk of infections or fungal growth.
Advice: Wear cotton underwear to reduce sweating and maintain hygiene in sensitive areas.
Poor Personal Hygiene
Effect: Neglecting hygiene is a major cause of bacterial or viral infections, leading to skin inflammation, burning, or tingling sensations.
Advice: Maintain regular hygiene using gentle cleansers suitable for sensitive skin.
Prolonged Sitting
Effect: Sitting for long periods without movement, especially when combined with a low-fiber diet, can slow bowel activity and worsen constipation—causing discomfort or tingling.
Advice: Exercise regularly and consume a varied diet rich in fruits and vegetables to stimulate bowel function.
Step-by-Step Diagnosis Process
To identify the exact cause of tingling or pain in the anal and rectal area, doctors follow a structured diagnostic approach. Here are the main steps involved:
1. Medical History (The Most Important Step)
The first and most essential step involves a detailed discussion with the doctor. Questions may include:
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Nature of the pain: Is it sharp, persistent, like a sting, or does it occur suddenly?
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When did it start? Are there any factors that worsen or relieve it?
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Accompanying symptoms, such as:
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Anal bleeding
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Discharge or pus
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Constipation or diarrhea
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Itching or heat
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Previous digestive problems
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Dietary habits and daily routines, like stress or eating spicy food
2. Physical Examination
Once the doctor gathers your medical history, a physical exam of the anal area is performed:
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Visual inspection around the anus for fissures, hemorrhoids, or signs of inflammation
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Check for scratches or skin irritation
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A Digital Rectal Exam (DRE) might be done where the doctor gently inserts a gloved finger to feel for masses, tenderness, or abnormalities inside the rectum.
3. Lab Tests as Needed
If an internal issue or infection is suspected, the doctor may request tests such as:
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Stool analysis: To detect parasites, hidden blood, or infections
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Discharge culture: If discharge or pus is present
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Blood tests: To identify signs of infection or inflammation
4. Rectal or Colonoscopy (When Necessary)
If symptoms persist or involve bleeding or deep pain, further procedures may be recommended:
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Anoscopy: To examine hemorrhoids or fissures near the anus
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Proctoscopy: To inspect the inner rectum wall
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Colonoscopy: If deeper colon issues like inflammation or tumors are suspected
5. Imaging Tests (In Select Cases)
In complex cases, imaging may be required for a clearer diagnosis:
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Pelvic CT Scan: To identify abscesses or internal fistulas
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Anal ultrasound: To check for infections or fluid collections
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Pelvic MRI: If there are neurological symptoms or unexplained pain
Simplified Diagnostic Examples
| Symptom | Likely Exam | Probable Diagnosis |
|---|---|---|
| Tingling with night itching | Stool test | Pinworm infection |
| Tingling with pain after defecation | Anal exam | Anal fissure |
| Throbbing tingling with fever | Imaging (CT/Ultrasound) | Anal abscess |
| Chronic unexplained tingling | Anoscopy | Internal hemorrhoids or proctitis |
Surgical Treatment Options Based on Cause
Surgical treatment for anal and rectal pain varies depending on the underlying condition. In some cases, surgery is the most effective way to relieve symptoms. Here are the most common surgical options:
1. Surgical Treatment for Hemorrhoids
When hemorrhoids are at stage 3 or 4, or if they cause persistent pain or bleeding, surgery may be required:
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Traditional Hemorrhoidectomy:
Complete removal of internal or external hemorrhoids. It’s highly effective but requires longer recovery. -
Rubber Band Ligation:
A non-invasive technique where a rubber band is placed at the base of the hemorrhoid to cut off its blood supply, causing it to fall off. -
Laser or Stapled Hemorrhoidectomy:
Modern techniques using laser or a stapler device for removal. These are less painful and offer quicker recovery.
2. Surgical Treatment for Anal Fissures
If the fissure becomes chronic and doesn’t heal naturally:
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Lateral Internal Sphincterotomy:
A small cut is made in the internal anal sphincter muscle to reduce spasm and promote healing. This is the most effective surgery for chronic fissures.
3. Surgical Treatment for Anal Abscess or Fistula
If someone has an anal abscess or fistula, surgery may be needed:
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Incision and Drainage:
The abscess is opened and drained of pus. Sometimes, the wound is left open to heal from the inside out. -
Fistulotomy or Fistulectomy:
The abnormal tract between the inside and outside of the anus is removed. In some cases, a special medical thread (Seton) is used to allow gradual cleaning without damaging anal muscles.
4. Surgical Treatment for Tumors or Polyps
If tumors or polyps are present, surgical intervention may be necessary:
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Polypectomy:
Polyps inside the rectum or anal canal are removed using a surgical scope. -
Rectal Tumor Removal:
If rectal cancer is suspected, partial or complete rectum removal may be performed. In some cases, temporary diversion of the bowel may be needed.
Post-Surgery Tips
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Complete Rest: It’s crucial to rest well, especially during the first week after surgery.
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High-Fiber Diet: Helps prevent constipation that could strain the surgical site.
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Daily Hygiene: Keep the area clean using warm water to prevent infections.
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Regular Follow-Up: Visit your doctor regularly to ensure proper recovery and avoid complications.
