What are the symptoms of Fistula?

What are the symptoms of Fistula?

Fistula is an abnormal connection of the skin and two body cavities. Fistulas often occur due to side effects of anal abscess, inflammation, infection or surgeries. Treatment ranges from medication to surgery, depending on the severity of this abnormality. Men with anorectal conditions are more prone to fistula than women. Fistula can happen in or between the following body parts:

• The skin and anus (fistula-in-ano)

• The neck and throat

• The bowel and vagina

• The cervix and vagina

• The navel and gut

Fistula is an abnormal connection of the skin and two body cavities. Fistulas often occur due to side effects of anal abscess, inflammation, infection or surgeries. Treatment ranges from medication to surgery, depending on the severity of this abnormality. Men with anorectal conditions are more prone to fistula than women. Fistula can happen in or between the following body parts:

• The skin and anus (fistula-in-ano)

• The neck and throat

• The bowel and vagina

• The cervix and vagina

• The navel and gut

Types of Fistula

The major types of fistula —

Enterocutaneous Fistula:

This type connects the intestine to the skin and can occur as a complication after surgery. 

Enteroenteric or Enterocolic Fistula:

This involves the large or small intestine.

Enterovaginal Fistula:

Extends to the vagina.

Enterovesical Fistula:

Leads to the bladder, possibly causing frequent urinary tract infections or the passage of gas during urination.

The symptoms depend on its location in the body. Read on to understand about the symptoms of fistula in detail.