How to manage lingering pain after anal fistula surgery?

Hello,

We understand your concern. If you have undergone a procedure for anal fistula and are still having pain, it is important to get examined by the surgeon who treated you. Some pain can occur during the healing period, but ongoing or increasing pain should not be ignored.

Sometimes pain can be due to slow healing, swelling, infection, an abscess, or the fistula not having completely healed. The exact cause can only be confirmed after an examination.

What you can do for relief

• Take the pain medicine prescribed by your doctor.

• Take warm water sitz baths for about 10–15 minutes, especially after passing stool, if your doctor has allowed it.

• Keep the area clean and gently dry it after washing.

• Drink enough water and eat fibre-rich foods such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains to avoid constipation.

• Do not strain while passing stool.

• Avoid heavy lifting and activities that increase pain until your doctor advises otherwise.

• Do not apply creams, oils or home remedies inside or around the wound without medical advice.

• Complete any prescribed medicines, especially antibiotics, exactly as directed.

When you should see the doctor urgently

Contact your surgeon promptly if the pain is getting worse or you have swelling, increasing redness, pus or foul-smelling discharge, fever, chills, difficulty passing stool or urine, or a new painful lump near the anus.

If you have severe pain, high fever, significant swelling, heavy bleeding or feel very unwell, seek urgent medical care.

A follow-up examination is especially important if the pain has continued despite treatment, because the doctor may need to check whether the fistula has healed properly or whether further treatment is required.

Wishing you and your family good health always.
Warm regards,
Team HexaHealth