Difference Between Piles, Fissure, and Fistula
Piles, fissure, and fistula are three common anorectal conditions that cause discomfort and pain. Many people confuse these conditions with each other. This guide explains the difference between piles, fissure, and fistula clearly.
Piles (Hemorrhoids)
What are Piles?
Piles are swollen and inflamed blood vessels (veins) inside and around the anus and lower rectum.
Main Symptoms
- Rectal bleeding (bright red blood)
- Itching and irritation around anus
- Pain or discomfort
- Swelling or prolapse
Causes
Constipation, straining, low-fiber diet, pregnancy, obesity, sedentary lifestyle.
Treatment
Medicines, injection sclerotherapy, laser surgery, traditional hemorrhoidectomy.
Fissure (Anal Fissure)
What is a Fissure?
An anal fissure is a small tear or crack in the thin, moist lining of the anus.
Main Symptoms
- Severe pain during bowel movements
- Bleeding (small amount, bright red)
- Burning sensation after stool
- Visible crack at the anal opening
Causes
Hard stools, constipation, diarrhea, childbirth, tight anal sphincter.
Treatment
Dietary changes, topical creams, Botox injection, laser sphincterotomy.
Fistula (Anal Fistula)
What is a Fistula?
An anal fistula is an abnormal tunnel or channel that forms between the inside of the anus (anal canal) and the skin around the anus.
Main Symptoms
- Persistent pus or blood discharge near anus
- Swelling and redness around anus
- Pain that may be constant or worsen with movement
- Fever (if infected)
- A visible opening on the skin near anus
Causes
Previous anal abscess, Crohn’s disease, trauma, tuberculosis.
Treatment
Fistulotomy, seton technique, LIFT procedure, laser fistula treatment (FiLaC).
Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | Piles | Fissure | Fistula |
|---|---|---|---|
| What is it? | Swollen veins | Tear in anal lining | Abnormal tunnel |
| Main symptom | Bleeding, itching | Severe pain | Pus discharge |
| Blood? | Yes, often | Yes, small amount | Sometimes |
| Pain level | Mild to moderate | Severe | Moderate to severe |
| Treatment | Injection/Laser | LIS/Laser | FiLaC/Fistulotomy |
Expert Diagnosis in Pune
For accurate diagnosis and expert treatment of piles, fissure, or fistula in Pune, consult Dr Satish Jadhav (MD, FPC, CCKS) at Dr Jadhav Piles Fissure Injection & Laser Centre, Wakad, Pune.
Phone: 9665612777