Understanding the Difference Between Piles, Fissure, and Fistula
Many people in India suffer from problems like piles, fissures, and fistulas. These conditions cause discomfort, pain, and difficulty in daily activities. But many patients do not know the exact difference between these three conditions. Understanding them early helps in getting the right treatment from the right specialist.
If you are looking for expert care, Dr. Srivatsan Gurumurthy, a leading Colorectal Surgeon in Chennai, offers advanced and personalised treatment for all colorectal disorders. With over 17 years of experience, he is also a trusted Surgical Gastroenterologist in Chennai.
In this blog, let us clearly understand what piles, fissures, and fistulas are, their causes, symptoms, and the best treatment options available.
What are Piles?
Piles, also known as haemorrhoids, are swollen blood vessels in the rectum or anus. They may develop inside the rectum (internal piles) or outside the anus (external piles). This condition is common in people who have chronic constipation, strain during bowel movements, or sit for long hours.
Symptoms of Piles:
- Bright red bleeding during bowel movements
- Itching around the anus
- A small lump outside the anus
- Pain or discomfort when sitting
- Mucus discharge
Internal piles are usually painless but can bleed. External piles may become painful if a blood clot forms.
Causes of Piles:
- Constipation
- Pregnancy
- Sitting for long periods
- Low-fibre diet
- Obesity
- Straining during bowel movements
Treatment for Piles:
Most piles improve with lifestyle changes. A Laparoscopic Surgeon in Chennai may suggest minimally invasive procedures for severe cases. Treatments include:
- Lifestyle changes, such as a fibre-rich diet
- Warm sitz baths
- Medications to reduce pain and inflammation
- Minimally invasive treatments like banding, laser treatment, or laparoscopic surgery
For advanced cases, robotic-assisted treatment may also be advised by a skilled Robotic Surgeon in Chennai.
What Is a Fissure?
A fissure is a small tear in the skin of the anal canal. It usually happens due to hard stools or excessive straining. A fissure causes sharp pain during and after passing stool.
Symptoms of Anal Fissure:
- Severe pain during bowel movements
- Burning sensation after passing stool
- Fresh bleeding
- A small visible tear near the anus
- Spasm of the anal muscles
Causes of Anal Fissure:
- Passing hard stools
- Chronic constipation
- Diarrhoea
- Childbirth
- Inflammatory bowel disease
Treatment for Anal Fissure:
Treatment mainly focuses on reducing pain and healing the tear.
- Pain-relief creams
- Stool softeners
- Warm water sitz baths
- High-fibre diet
If the fissure does not heal within a few weeks, a Surgical Gastroenterologist in Chennai may recommend an advanced treatment like lateral internal sphincterotomy or a laser procedure. Chronic fissures require expert management to prevent recurrence.
What Is a Fistula?
A fistula is an abnormal tunnel between the anal canal and the skin near the anus. It usually forms after an infection or abscess that does not heal properly. Fistulas rarely heal on their own and often need surgical treatment.
Symptoms of Anal Fistula:
- Continuous pain
- Swelling near the anus
- Pus or foul-smelling discharge
- Recurrent abscess formation
- Fever in some cases
Causes of Anal Fistula
- Infection in anal glands
- Untreated abscess
- Crohn’s disease
- Tuberculosis
- Trauma
Treatment for Anal Fistula:
Fistula requires surgery in most cases. The type of surgery depends on the location and complexity of the fistula.
- Fistulotomy
- Seton placement
- Laser fistula treatment
- LIFT procedure
- Robotic or laparoscopic fistula surgery for complex cases
Advanced cases require the expertise of a highly trained Robotic Surgeon in Chennai who can perform precise and safe procedures with better outcomes.
Key Differences Between Piles, Fissure, and Fistula:
Understanding the difference helps you identify the condition early and seek the right specialist.
If you are unsure which condition you have, it is important to consult a specialist. An experienced Surgical Gastroenterologist in Chennai can diagnose the exact problem and provide the right treatment at the right time.
When Should You See a Doctor?
You should seek medical help if you notice:
- Bleeding from the anus
- Severe pain during bowel movements
- Persistent discharge
- A lump or swelling that does not go away
- Fever with anal pain
- Recurrent constipation
Ignoring symptoms can worsen the condition and lead to complications. Early diagnosis helps you avoid long-term discomfort.
Why Choose Dr. Srivatsan Gurumurthy for Anorectal Condition Treatment in Chennai?
Choosing the right specialist is important for conditions like piles, fissure, and fistula. Dr. S. Srivatsan Gurumurthy is one of the most trusted experts in Chennai for these problems. Here is why many patients prefer him:
- Over 17 Years of Clinical Experience:- He has long-standing experience in treating gastrointestinal and anorectal diseases. This helps him diagnose conditions accurately and offer the best treatment plan.
- Specialist in Colorectal Care:- As a leading Colorectal Surgeon in Chennai, he handles simple to complex piles, fissure, and fistula cases with high success rates.
- Expertise in Robotic and Laparoscopic Surgery:- He is a highly trained Robotic Surgeon in Chennai and Laparoscopic Surgeon in Chennai, skilled in minimally invasive operations. These techniques offer:
• Smaller cuts
• Less pain
• Faster healing
• Early return to normal routine - Advanced Treatment for Piles, Fissure, and Fistula:- He provides modern procedures such as laser treatment, laparoscopic surgery, and robotic-assisted surgery. These methods ensure better safety and long-term relief.
- Strong Academic Background:- Dr. S. Srivatsan Gurumurthy has completed MBBS, MS, DNB (GI Surgery), and multiple specialised fellowships. His extensive training helps him follow the latest surgical techniques and global standards.
- Recognised for Research and Achievements:- He has co-authored more than 34 research papers in reputed journals. He has also received awards for his laparoscopic work and has been invited as faculty at national and international surgical conferences.
- Patient-Centred Care:- He takes time to listen to patients, explains the condition clearly, and guides them through every step of treatment. His approach focuses on comfort, safety, and personalised care.
- Long-Term Relief and Lower Recurrence:- His modern surgical methods aim to reduce recurrence of piles, fissure, and fistula, helping patients enjoy a better quality of life.
Conclusion:
Piles, fissure, and fistula may seem similar, but each condition requires a different approach to diagnosis and treatment. Early consultation with an expert helps prevent complications and ensures faster recovery. If you are experiencing symptoms like pain, bleeding, or discharge, do not ignore them. Consult Dr. S. Srivatsan Gurumurthy, an experienced Surgical Gastroenterologist in Chennai, for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. His expertise in robotic and laparoscopic surgery ensures safe and advanced treatment options for all anorectal conditions.