Colon Fistula – Information and Remedies

Fistula is basically an infection that refuses to heal on its own, thus creating an abnormal passage between two organs. Those who suffer from this need immediate treatment. Doctors sometimes require a round of strong meds (oftentimes antibiotics) to let the infection subside or even close on its own. Otherwise, surgery is a must so that the doctor can clean the passage before he closes it.

Those who suffer from colon fistula notice an opening on the surface of their skin. This opening leads to the colon. This means that fecal matter is sometimes diverted through this opening instead of heading straight to the rectum, making this disease not only uncomfortable, but embarrassing as well. People who suffer from it refuse to leave the house because of the stench that emanates from their stomach.

People Who Suffer from Fistula

The following are more at risk for colon fistula:

• Those who have undergone abdominal surgery
• Those who suffer from Crohn’s disease
• Those who suffer from diverticulitis
• Colon cancer patients

Thus, it’s important that you watch what you eat in order to avoid problems in the future. As for those who suffer from Crohn’s disease or diverticulitis, you need to visit your doctor regularly so that he can monitor your health closely and avoid any type of fistula from forming.

What to Do

Only your physician can tell you what needs to be done should you notice a colon fistula forming. First and foremost, you’ll have to go through tests to pinpoint the source of your problem. The fistula can always be closed through surgery, but your doctor needs to figure out why this formed in the first place. He may even perform colonoscopy to look into your intestines further. The medications will also depend on the cause he finds.

As soon as the cause for your colon fistula has been successfully pinpointed, you’ll definitely need to deal with infection before anything else. If the passage doesn’t close on its own, you’ll be wheeled in for surgery where your doctor can clean the infection further before he sews it closed. You’ll be given time to recover in the hospital where you’ll continue to take medicines while the wound slowly heals itself. Then, you’ll have to refrain from doing anything strenuous until you’re given the clean bill of health. Listen to the expert so that the fistula doesn’t reoccur and cause further complications.