What is a fistula, and can Ayurveda help heal it without surgery?

Question

A few months ago, I started noticing discomfort and pain near my anus, especially when sitting for long periods. At first, I thought it was just hemorrhoids, but then I started seeing some discharge and swelling in the area. I went to a doctor, and they told me I have a fistula. I had never even heard of this before, and now I’m really stressed about it.

The doctor said the only real solution is surgery, but I’m really not comfortable with that idea. I’ve heard that even after surgery, a fistula can come back, so I don’t know if it’s worth it. I want to know if Ayurveda has a way to heal a fistula naturally without needing surgery. I read about Kshar Sutra therapy, which some Ayurvedic doctors use for fistula treatment, but I don’t fully understand how it works. Does it actually cure the problem, or is it just another temporary fix?

Another thing—I’ve noticed that my digestion has been off for a while now. I have frequent constipation, and I think that might have contributed to this fistula. Does Ayurveda focus on treating the root cause, like digestion issues, to prevent the fistula from coming back? If so, what kind of diet or lifestyle changes should I follow to stop it from getting worse?

Has anyone here treated a fistula with Ayurveda instead of surgery? If so, how long did it take, and what worked best? I’d love to hear real experiences before deciding what to do next.

Dr. Harsha Joy · Accepted Answer

A fistula can certainly be a distressing condition, and it's understandable that you want to explore all your options before resorting to surgery. Ayurveda does offer natural approaches, and Kshar Sutra therapy is one of the treatments often used to manage fistulas. This treatment involves the use of a medicated thread that is placed in the fistula tract, and it gradually helps to cleanse and heal the area by promoting healing tissue and draining the infection. While it has been effective for many, it may not be a guaranteed permanent fix for everyone, and results can vary. Ayurveda also emphasizes treating the root cause of conditions like a fistula, so addressing underlying issues like digestive health is crucial. Chronic constipation or poor digestion can exacerbate fistulas, so improving your digestive function through diet and lifestyle changes is key. A high-fiber diet, along with triphala, ginger, and ghee, can support better digestion and regular bowel movements. It's also important to incorporate lifestyle practices like staying hydrated, avoiding excessive straining during bowel movements, and managing stress, as these can all contribute to digestion-related issues. Incorporating yoga or pranayama (breathing exercises) can help with both digestion and reducing stress, which may prevent the fistula from recurring. While Ayurveda offers many potential benefits, the healing process can take time, and results depend on consistency. If you’re considering this approach, it’s always a good idea to consult with an experienced Ayurvedic practitioner who can guide you through a personalized treatment plan.

What is a fistula, and can Ayurveda help heal it without surgery? - #16864

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