Bruxing - Do you know it?

Bruxism (teeth grinding)

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Definition

By Mayo Clinic Staff

Bruxism (BRUK-siz-um) is a condition in which you grind, gnash or clench your teeth. If you have bruxism, you may unconsciously clench your teeth together during the day, or clench or grind them at night (sleep bruxism).

Sleep bruxism is considered a sleep-related movement disorder. People who clench or grind their teeth (brux) during sleep are more likely to have other sleep disorders, such as snoring and pauses in breathing (sleep apnea).

Mild bruxism may not require treatment. However, in some people, bruxism can be frequent and severe enough to lead to jaw disorders, headaches, damaged teeth and other problems.

Because you may have sleep bruxism and be unaware of it until complications develop, it's important to know the signs and symptoms of bruxism and to seek regular dental care.

Appointments & care

At Mayo Clinic, we take the time to listen, to find answers and to provide you the best care.

Symptoms

By Mayo Clinic Staff

Signs and symptoms of bruxism may include:

• Teeth grinding or clenching, which may be loud enough to awaken your sleep partner
• Teeth that are flattened, fractured, chipped or loose
• Worn tooth enamel, exposing deeper layers of your tooth
• Increased tooth sensitivity
• Jaw or face pain or soreness
• Tired or tight jaw muscles
• Pain that feels like an earache, though it's actually not a problem with your ear
• Dull headache originating in the temples
• Damage from chewing on the inside of your cheek
• Indentations on your tongue

When to see a doctor

See your doctor or dentist if:

• Your teeth are worn, damaged or sensitive
• You have pain in your jaw, face or ear
• Others complain that you make a grinding noise while you sleep
• You have a locked jaw that won't open or close completely

If you notice that your child is grinding his or her teeth — or has other signs or symptoms of bruxism — be sure to mention it at your child's next dental appointment.

Causes

By Mayo Clinic Staff

Doctors don't completely understand what causes bruxism. Possible physical or psychological causes may include:

• Emotions, such as anxiety, stress, anger, frustration or tension
• Aggressive, competitive or hyperactive personality type
• Abnormal alignment of upper and lower teeth (malocclusion)
• Other sleep problems, such as sleep apnea
• Response to pain from an earache or teething (in children)
• Stomach acid reflux into the esophagus
• An uncommon side effect of some psychiatric medications, such as phenothiazines or certain antidepressants
• A coping strategy or focusing habit
• Complication resulting from a disorder such as Huntington's disease or Parkinson's disease

Risk factors

By Mayo Clinic Staff

These factors increase your risk of bruxism:

• Stress. Increased anxiety or stress can lead to teeth grinding. So can anger and frustration.
• Age. Bruxism is common in young children, but it usually goes away by the teen years.
• Personality type. Having a personality type that is aggressive, competitive or hyperactive can increase your risk of bruxism.
• Stimulating substances. Smoking tobacco, drinking caffeinated beverages or alcohol, or taking illegal drugs such as methamphetamine or Ecstasy may increase the risk of bruxism.

Complications

By Mayo Clinic Staff

In most cases, bruxism doesn't cause serious complications. But severe bruxism may lead to:

• Damage to your teeth, restorations, crowns or jaw
• Tension-type headaches
• Facial pain
• Disorders that occur in the temporomandibular joints (TMJs), located just in front of your ears, which may sound like clicking when you open and close your mouth

Preparing for your appointment

By Mayo Clinic Staff

It's usually best to see your dentist first, though you also may see your primary care provider if your dentist feels it's necessary. In some cases when you call to set up an appointment, you may be referred to a sleep specialist.

Because appointments can be brief, it's a good idea to be well-prepared.

What you can do

To get ready for your appointment:

• Gather relevant medical records, for instance, if you've been seen for bruxism-related problems in the past.
• Make a list of any symptoms you're experiencing, including any that may seem unrelated to the reason for the appointment. If you experience pain, make a note of when it occurs, such as when you wake up or at the end of the day.
• Make a note of key personal information,including any major stresses or recent life changes.
• Make a list of all medications, vitamins or other supplements you're taking and the dosages.
• Prepare questions to ask your doctor or dentist.

For bruxism, some basic questions to ask include:

• What's likely causing my symptoms or condition?
• Are there other possible causes?
• What kinds of tests do I need?
• Is my condition likely temporary or long-term?
• What's the best treatment?
• What are the alternatives to the primary approach you're suggesting?
• I have other health conditions. How can I best manage them together?
• Are there any restrictions I need to follow?
• Should I see a specialist? Will my insurance cover that?
• Is there a generic alternative to the medicine you're prescribing?
• Are there any brochures or other printed material that I can have? What websites do you recommend?

What to expect from your doctor or dentist

Your doctor or dentist is likely to ask you a number of questions, such as:

• When did you first begin experiencing symptoms?
• Have your symptoms been continuous or occasional?
• How severe are your symptoms?
• What, if anything, seems to improve your symptoms?
• What, if anything, seems to worsen your symptoms?

Tests and diagnosis

By Mayo Clinic Staff

During regular dental exams, your dentist likely will check for signs of bruxism. If you have any signs, your dentist will look for changes in your teeth and mouth over the next several visits to see if the process is progressive and to determine whether you need treatment.

If your dentist suspects that you have bruxism, he or she will try to determine its cause by asking questions about your general dental health, medications, daily routines and sleep habits.

To evaluate the extent of bruxism, your dentist may check for:

• Tenderness in your jaw muscles
• Obvious dental abnormalities, such as broken or missing teeth or poor tooth alignment
• Damage to your teeth, the underlying bone and the inside of your cheeks, usually with the help of X-rays

A dental exam may detect other disorders that can cause similar jaw or ear pain, such as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, other dental problems or an ear infection.

If your dentist suspects a significant psychological component to your teeth grinding or a sleep-related disorder, you may be referred to a therapist, counselor or sleep specialist. A sleep specialist may conduct more tests, such as assessment for sleep apnea, video monitoring and measuring how often your jaw muscles tighten while you sleep.

Treatments and drugs

By Mayo Clinic Staff

In many cases, treatment isn't necessary. Many kids outgrow bruxism without treatment, and many adults don't grind or clench their teeth badly enough to require therapy. However, if the problem is severe, treatment options include certain dental approaches, therapies and medications. Talk to your doctor about what may work best for you.

Dental approaches

If you or your child has bruxism, your doctor may suggest ways to preserve or improve your teeth. Although these methods may prevent or correct the wear to your teeth, they may not stop the bruxism:

• Splints and mouth guards. These are designed to keep teeth separated to avoid the damage caused by clenching and grinding. They can be constructed of hard acrylic or soft materials and fit over your upper or lower teeth.
• Dental correction. Correcting teeth that aren't properly aligned may help if your bruxism seems to be related to dental problems. In severe cases — when tooth wear has led to sensitivity or the inability to chew properly — your dentist may need to reshape the chewing surfaces of your teeth or use crowns. In certain cases, your dentist may recommend braces or oral surgery.

Therapies

Certain therapies may help relieve bruxism, such as:

• Stress management. If you grind your teeth because of stress, you may be able to prevent the problem with professional counseling or strategies that promote relaxation, such as exercise or meditation.
• Behavior therapy. Once you discover that you have bruxism, you may be able to change the behavior by practicing proper mouth and jaw position. Ask your dentist to show you the best position for your mouth and jaw.
• Biofeedback. If you're having a hard time changing your habits, you may benefit from biofeedback, a form of complementary medicine that uses monitoring procedures and equipment to teach you to control muscle activity in your jaw.

Medications

In general, medications aren't very effective for treatment of bruxism, and more research is needed to determine their effectiveness. Examples of medications that may be used for bruxism include:

• Muscle relaxants. In some cases, your doctor may suggest taking a muscle relaxant before bedtime, for a short period of time.
• OnabotulinumtoxinA (Botox) injections.Botox injections may help some people with severe bruxism who don't respond to other treatments.

If you develop bruxism as a side effect of a medication, your doctor may change your medication or prescribe a different one.

Lifestyle and home remedies

By Mayo Clinic Staff

These self-care steps may prevent or help treat bruxism:

• Reduce stress. Listening to music, taking a warm bath or exercising can help you relax and may reduce your risk of developing bruxism.
• Avoid stimulating substances in the evening. Don't drink caffeinated coffee or caffeinated tea after dinner, and avoid alcohol and smoking during the evening, as they may worsen bruxism.
• Practice good sleep habits. Getting a good night's sleep, which may include treatment for sleep problems, may help reduce bruxism.
• Talk to your sleep partner. If you have a sleeping partner, ask him or her to be aware of any grinding or clicking sounds that you might make while sleeping so that you can report this to your doctor.
• Schedule regular dental exams. Dental exams are the best way to identify bruxism. Your dentist can spot signs of bruxism in your mouth and jaw with regular visits and exams.

Your Toes Reveal About Your Personality

This Is What Your Toes Reveal About Your Personality

 Akanksha Prabhune

 23

Did you know that your toes can tell you a lot about your health and your personality? According to some studies,the length and shape of your toes says a lot about you as a person. Well, even though taken with a pinch of salt, its still fun to know what this has to say about you!

Image source

Big Toe

If your big toe is much longer than your other toes, you are a clever, creative thinker. You come up with ingenious solutions to problems.  You can see things from different angles and are never stumped for ideas. On the downside, you may have problems focusing and sometimes don’t see projects through. 

Your big toe being comparatively small is an indication that you are a superb multi-tasker. You use your charm to persuade people to go along with your ideas, can delegate effectively and are efficient. .

Second Toe

The second toe on your right foot shows what you want in life. If you are getting it, the toe will be touching the floor. If it isn’t, or if there is a gap between it and the third toe, that indicates you are trying to separate yourself from your emotions. The longer your second toe, the more leadership qualities you have. You are dynamic and resourceful, but your desire to get things done, ‘my way or no way’, can tip over into bossiness.

According to Indian folklore, eagle-eyed mothers stopped their sons marrying girls with long second toes because it meant they were far too bossy!

But don’t worry- it does not work the other way round for a smaller second toe! A smaller second toe doesn’t mean you’re a pushover. It simply indicates you are happy to bide your time. You value harmony and won’t try to bulldoze your way through situations.

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Third Toe

If your third toe is comparatively long, it means you are incredibly energetic and resourceful, especially at work. The longer this toe is, the more you are driven to succeed in your career.

The Chinese associate energy, drive and willpower with the third toe.

You’re a perfectionist and can achieve huge amounts with your determination and energy. The drawback is a tendency to let work take over and to forget about fun, love and family.

If the toe is short, you enjoy the pleasures in life. You love relaxing and don’t get worked up about anything. Others may accuse you of being lazy, but you would argue that life is short, so enjoy it.

Fourth Toe

Your fourth toe is all about relationships. A long, straight fourth toe indicates family is crucially important to your life. Unhappiness in your relationships with loved ones will show up in a curling of this toe.

You are a superb listener and nurturer, but will be deeply affected by unhappiness within the family. You find it hard to cut yourself off from other people’s problems.

The Chinese would say that you’re a gentle soul, easily wounded. If your toes are clawed you need to try to let go, relax and don’t take on all the burdens of others. Your health might be affected by any disturbances in the home.

A short fourth toe means that family and relationships are less crucial to you — your focus is elsewhere.

Little Toe

Childlike impishness is a characteristic of those with small little toes. You’ll shy away from responsibility, be easily bored and constantly looking for amusing diversions. You are great fun to be with, sociable and witty, — but we all have to grow up sometime.

And if you can wiggle your little toe separately from your fourth toe, you are an impulsive, adventurous, charming flirt. If you can’t, you value routine, predictability and loyalty.

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WHAT ARE THE ARCHES OF YOUR FEET SAY ABOUT YOU:

High arches are found on people who are very independent and self-sufficient. You need plenty of time on your own and might even be accused of being anti-social.

You have an indomitable spirit, but remember, it isn’t a weakness to ask for help. In Chinese philosophy, those with very high arches are in danger of being brittle and rigid.

If your arches are low or average, you value the company of others, are sociable and fairly extrovert. You enjoy having a good time and want to ensure that others do, too.

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WIDE FEET:

The Chinese would say your feet are planted firmly on the ground. You’re always on the go and can’t sit still for a minute. Let yourself stop and think. You’re happiest when you’re busy, but should try to make time for reflection, and a little peace and calm in your life. There’s a difference between idle day-dreaming and gentle reflection.

TOES THAT NEATLY GRADUATE IN SIZE

If each toe is a little longer than the one before, creating a neat line, this indicates a methodical, precise and extremely practical person. You’re interested in detail and ensure that you always finish what you start. You’re a dream employee, and a good friend — loyal and steadfast to a fault. Watch out for a tendency to nitpick, though — not everyone is as balanced as you.

LONG NARROW FEET

The Chinese would say you have Princess feet that barely touch the ground. You were born to be waited on, but spare a thought for the rest of us! You like nothing better than to be pampered. You find it incredibly easy to delegate — why bother with all the hard work if you can get someone else to do it for you? You’ve got a strong aesthetic sense and need beauty in your surroundings.

Your home will be gorgeous whatever your income.

Feet tell about you

What Do Your Feet Say About You?

We told you what your feet say about you and your personality! Have a look here and find out what yours are giving away!

The eyes may be the window to the soul, but if you really want to know how someone ticks, look to their feet. 

Here’s a guide to what your feet reveal about you...

BIG TOE

If your big toe is much longer than your other toes, you are a clever, creative thinker.

If your big toe is comparatively small, this indicates that you are a superb multi-tasker.

SECOND TOE

The longer your second toe, the more leadership qualities you have. You are dynamic and resourceful.

A smaller second toe doesn’t means you value harmony and won’t try to bulldoze your way through situations.

THIRD TOE

If it is comparatively long, it means you are incredibly energetic and resourceful, especially at work.

If the toe is short, you enjoy the pleasures in life. You love relaxing and don’t get worked up about anything.

FOURTH TOE

A long, straight fourth toe indicates family is crucially important to your life. You are a superb listener and nurturer, but will be deeply affected by unhappiness within the family. You find it hard to cut yourself off from other people’s problems.

A short fourth toe means that family and relationships are less crucial to you — your focus is elsewhere.

LITTLE TOE

Childlike impishness is a characteristic of those with small little toes. You’ll shy away from responsibility, be easily bored and constantly looking for amusing diversions. You are great fun to be with, sociable and witty, but your Peter Pan tendencies can land you in trouble.

And if you can wiggle your little toe separately from your fourth toe, you are an impulsive, adventurous, charming flirt.

If you can’t, you value routine, predictability and loyalty. Go for a man who can wiggle his little toe if you want a mad, fun, frenetic wild night out — but as for marriage, pick a chap who can’t wiggle to save his life.

TOES THAT NEATLY GRADUATE IN SIZE

If each toe is a little longer than the one before, creating a neat line, this indicates a methodical, precise and extremely practical person.

You’re a dream employee, and a good friend — loyal and steadfast to a fault.

WIDE FEET

You’ve got solid worker feet. You’re always on the go and can’t sit still for a minute.

LONG NARROW FEET

You like nothing better than to be pampered. You find it incredibly easy to delegate — why bother with all the hard work if you can get someone else to do it for you?

ARCHES

High arches are found on people who are very independent and self-sufficient.

If your arches are low or average, you value the company of others, are sociable and fairly extrovert.  

What your feet tell about your health?

 8 Things Your Feet Say About Your Health

Katie Waldecky 

From vitamin deficiencies to thyroid issues, your feet can tell you a lot more about your health than you might expect. Read on for some of the things our feet say about our overall health.

1. Hairlessness

You don’t have to look like a hobbit by any means, but a complete lack of hair on your feet and toes may be a sign that you don’t have the best circulation. This is especially true if you’ve noticed hair loss on your feet. One thing you can do? Test the pulse on your ankle. If you can’t find it, talk to your doctor.

2. Cold Feet

Hypothyroidism, or an under active thyroid gland, can impact your body in a number of ways, including your feet. Are your feet always cold? If you’re experiencing other symptoms of hypothyroidism, including dry skin and hair, fatigue and unexplained weight gain, talk to your doctor.

3. Swollen, Sore Big Toes

A sore, swollen, red and warm big toe is a hallmark ofgout. In fact, many people discover that they have gout because of issues with their big toe. A form of arthritis, gout is caused by elevated levels of uric acid in the bloodstream. Though it’s often associated with excessive meat consumption, just over 1 in 10 cases of gout are directly related to diet.

4. Dry, Flaky Skin

You don’t have to be a pro player to get athlete’s foot. If you notice the skin on your feet, especially between the toes, is unusually dry, flaky and itchy, this fungal infection may be the culprit. Treat the area with an over-the-counter solution, and, if it doesn’t go away, talk to your doctor.

5. Smelly Feet

Luckily, having smelly feet is not necessarily a sign of anything nefarious. What they CAN be a sign of, though, is, not surprisingly, improper hygiene. Wash your feet regularly, stick to cotton socks and, if you’re prone to sweating, keep an extra pair of clean socks on hand. Another tip? Don’t wear the same shoes every single day!

6. Difficulty Walking

If staying on your feet is hard for you, there could be a number of issues at play. Difficulty absorbing calcium, undiagnosed fractures and anorexia are the biggest ones. if you’re having trouble walking, your best bet is to speak to your doctor.

7. Frequent Charley Horses

If you often find yourself with muscle spasms, but overuse or injury of the muscle don’t seem to be the culprit, you could be dehydrated or have one of a number of different vitamin or mineral deficiencies. Potassium, calcium and even too-low levels of sodium in the bloodstream can make you more prone to these painful muscle spasms.

8. Unexplained Numbness

If your feet (and legs) feel numb, there are a number of possible culprits. Sure, one of them is sitting for too long, but it can also be a sign of much more serious ailments, including Multiple Sclerosis, nerve damage and Fibromyalgia.

Herbal remedies for anal fistula

WHAT IS FISTULA IN ANO? The fistula in anus or anal fistula is defined as the abnormal connection between the surface of the anal canal and the perianal surface. The anal sphincters which drain the anal canal have anal glands in them. Any pathology that leads to the blockage of the ducts of these glands may lead to the formation of anal fistula. These drain pus and may cause a lot of discomfort and pain. WHAT ARE THE CAUSES OF FISTULA IN ANO? THE FISTULA IN ANUS IS AN ABNORMAL PATHWAY DUE TO ABSCESS FORMATION. THE MOST COMMON CAUSES OF FISTULA OF ANO ARE: A growth or ulcers Any complication or surgery Congenital Due to sexually transmitted diseases Abscesses are the most common cause of anal fistula WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF FISTULA IN ANO? THE SYMPTOMS THAT ARE USUALLY SEEN IN CASE OF ANAL FISTULA ARE: Bloody discharge Purulent discharge In case of infection in the abscess fever, inflammation, pain, and discomfort can be seen. Itching in the anal region HOW CAN AYURVEDA HELP IN CASE OF FISTULA IN ANO? Ayurveda is an ancient Indian system of medicine that makes use of herbs existing in the nature and formulates herbal remedies using the inherent power present in these herbs. We in Ayurveda believe that herbal remedies bring to you the richness of the herbs in a natural, unadulterated form. These combinations help improve immunity and provide strength, endurance and will. Ayurveda uses the inherent power of natural herbs to bring about wonderful results on the human body. The herbs are natural and 100% safe. They improve the body metabolism and help recover from all digestive disorders. The digestion process is carried out smoothly and the digestive juice secretions become effective. HERBS IN AYURVEDA THAT HELP IN CASE OF FISTULA IN ANO EMBLICA OFFICINALIS (AMALAKI) The herb is known for its rejuvenating properties. It is a natural antioxidant that removes free radicals from the body and helps in regeneration of cells. Amla helps in increasing the body vitality and strengthening immunity. It helps in developing healthy, glowing skin and preventing premature aging. Anemia and blood related disorders are helped in a natural way. It helps in maintaining proper functioning of the liver. It aids digestion by soothing hyperacidity. This wonderful herb helps in improving immunity and boosting metabolism. The herb helps gain youthful skin and beauty. Amla has aphrodisiac, antipyretic, cardio-tonic, anti-diabetic, cerebral and gastrointestinal properties. It prevents premature greying of hair, hair loss and promotes hair and nail growth. It enhances eye sight, keeps the mouth clean, and nourishes bones and teeth. It helps to keep the intestine clean and also controls blood sugar. Amla is used to prepare Vara churna and Triphala guggul. TERMINALIA CHEBULA (HARITAKI) Haritaki is an important constituent of Triphala that has wonderful health benefits. It acts well in gastrointestinal ailments, in cases of spleenomegaly, hepatomegaly, tumors, ascites, and anemias. Its powder, when mixed with honey and ghee, is an effective remedy for anemia. The herb improves memory and is salutary in dysuria and urinary stones. Haritaki helps in improving appetite and helps in the digestion. In anemia of any origin, Haritaki herb is highly beneficial. It helps anemia due to haemoglobin deficiency, anemia due to red blood cell deficiency, and anemias of abnormal form origin. Haritaki is used in Vara churna and Triphala guggul. TERMINALIA BELERICA (VIBHITAKI) A very important herb in the Ayurvedic world, Vibhitaki is famous for its wonderful use in the formation of Triphala. It has numerous health benefits on the human body. Its action on the heart makes it an excellent heart tonic. It helps in purifying blood, thinning of blood, and removing toxins. It is used in cases of low RBC count and low haemoglobin. Vibhitaki helps cases of anemia of any origin and help regain healthy haemoglobin count and form. Our product Vara churna and Triphala guggul have Vibhitaki. COMMIPHORA MUKUL (GUGGUL) Guggul has highly potent rejuvenating properties. It revitalizes cells and therefore rejuvenates them. Its purifying properties as well as lipid- regulating properties make it a wonderful herb for many health tonics. It is useful for people who have low haemoglobin and are anemic. It is useful in many heath conditions as it has proved its versatility in several conditions. The effect it has on cholesterol and triglyceride levels indirectly protects the heart from atherosclerosis. The herb also boosts the levels of HDL cholesterol. This herb also has been proved to have antioxidant properties. The herb is beneficial for hypothyroidism related disorders. The herb promotes the metabolism and therefore aids in weight loss. It is also beneficial for conditions like arthritis, pre-menstrual syndrome, bloating and many more. Guggul is used in the preparation of Triphala guggul. CURCUMA LONGA (CURCUMIN) Owing to its rich medicinal properties, Curcumin is a widely used herb in case of cancer. Many malignant cancers have found their management in Curcumin. Anti-oxidants present in the herb reduce the free- radicals from the body thereby improving the health and immunity. Curcumin herb has rich anti-diabetic properties that make it a wonderful herb to use for diabetic patients. It is a famous Chinese medicine to relieve digestive and liver related diseases. Its anti- inflammatory properties make it a strong herb for various allergies, infections and inflammations. The herb has the power to fight against toxins and infections owing to its rich anti-biotic properties. It is used in many cosmetics due to its beneficial actions on the skin. We use Curcuma longa to prepare Curcumin capsules. AZADIRACHTA INDICA (NEEM) People in India use Neem herb on a daily basis owing to its rich medicinal effects on the health. It is widely used as a dental and gum cleaner to protect from oral infections and bad breath. Gingivitis, bleeding gums and toothache are also helped by using Neem regularly. Another of its famous use is as a skin disinfectant. It is widely used in soaps, shampoos and body washes and is believed to have relieving action on pimples. Some of its wonderful actions can be seen in diseases like diabetes and arthritis. It is due to its antibacterial properties that it is used in a lot of toothpastes and mouthwashes. Neem works wonder in medical conditions like bee stings, conjunctivitis, hemorrhoids, and ulcers and even in cases of bronchitis and epilepsy. Practitioners have drawn marvelous results in cases of skin diseases like psoriasis, acne and eczema. We have a product made up of Neem called the Neem capsules. It is also a vital ingredient of our Neem capsules.

Home remedies for anal fistula

Anal fistula home remedies

Anal fistula, also commonly called fistula-in-ano, is an abnormal passage (communication) between the surface of the anal canal or rectum and the exterior perianal skin. Often, it is the outcome of an earlier or present anal abscess, and it happens up to 50% of patients with abscesses. For those who are not aware of an abscess, it is an assortment of pus and infected fluid, and anal abscess generally develops after a small gland, just within the anus. A fistula might take place if an abscess has not been entirely healed, or if the infected fluid has not been fully drained away. An anal fistula usually causes pain and bloody discharge, especially when passing stools during bowel movements. Mostly people go for surgery to cure an anal fistula; however natural home remedies are always better for the treatment of any diseases. Check out here several home remedies for anal fistulas that also include homeopathic remedies.

Photo courtesy:colorectalsurgeonssydney.com

An anal fistula could even develop because of a complication from surgery, a growth or ulcer (painful sore) or a congenital abnormality - a health problem that you were born with. The symptoms of anal fistula consist of pain (generally constant, throbbing and worse when sitting down), pus and bleeding in the region, as well as skin irritation around the anus like swelling, redness and tenderness. Qualified healthcare providers should do a full evaluation, together with a digital rectal exam to find out the harshness of the condition.


Home remedies for Anal fistula

In simple words, a fistula can be said as a cut that you suffer in your anus. In severe cases, this cut can seep pus and is very painful. An anal fistula can be treated medically as well as home remedies can actively fix the problem. You can lessen the pain or symptoms of the fistula when you are defecating by having a high fiber diet and consuming plenty of fruits, vegetables, and soups in the diet. You should avoid eating heavily spiced foods and constipating foods such as burgers, pizzas, red meat, and other greasy items. However, medical intervention is required in order to entirely solve the problem. Your doctor will probably make a drainage canal around the fistula for the pus to drain out. However this may not heal it completely, it will lessen its size and extra cure could be required once the drainage of pus is complete. Many different types of surgical procedures are available to treat fistula, and these based on the place of fistula and level of the distress felt by the person.

One of the reasons behind the development of fistula is an improper lifestyle and unhealthy eating. Many people have a habit of regularly eating food that prepared from flour with lots of sugar, spices and oil, which are very harmful for your health. If you want to heal the fistula, first of all make a simple lifestyle changes in your daily habits. The main concern of any individual should be the eating of food that will assist in softening the stools, hence making it preventable to strain when passing stools. For this purpose also, you should consume lots of high fiber foods, fruits and vegetables. Rather than white bread, opt for a healthier multi grain alternative. Drink warm water, warm milk, butter milk or fruit juices in place of tea and coffee. Mix honey in warm water and drink it every morning. Moreover, papaya, radish and prunes are also helpful for people suffering from fistula. Salads are suggested, but yogurt and rice should be avoided as due to it there are increased chances of fermentation and gas creation that can cause more abscess formation. As well, yogurt causes channel blockage, so it is not suggested.

There are even definite Ayurvedic herbs, which provide effectual herbal treatment to this problem. The herbal supplements work simultaneously in order to dry the pus as well as aid to cure the fistula naturally. Ayurvedic treatment has been proved to be successful in many cases. The constipation should be avoided at any cost, so instead of having anti-biotics or anti-inflammatory drugs for long time, the patients should take soups, fiber rich diet, and herbal products such as Triphala capsules, Trifla guggul, Digestion Support, and apply Nirgundi oil 2 times a day after defecation to keep the area infection free.

As a part of the home remedies for anal fistula, the main thing is to stay away from pus creation, constipation and prevent infection in the area. Consult your qualified healthcare provider about the application of over the counter medications such as Neosporin or hydrogen peroxide solution in order to thwart the anal fistula from deterioration. Taking a Sitz bath every night is a good way to get infection out. Add a little salt or turmeric (for its antiseptic and antibacterial properties) to warm water to assist healing quickly.

Comfrey (also called Blackwort) herb is popular to heal and close wounds rapidly. Chinese medical practitioners have been using Comfrey for treating many types of skin diseases for more than 2000 years. Allantoin, which contained in Comfrey, helps fast healing of cells. The leaves and stem of Comfrey herb are largely used for medicinal purposes. Comfrey can be used in various forms like ointment, paste, or also create a poultice with dried powdered comfrey mixed with a little honey and wheat germ oil. Spread this paste on the fistula. It could help to relieve the pain as well as accelerate healing.

Fistula - Causes, symptoms, diagnosis n treatment

Anal Fistula: 

An anal fistula is a small channel that can develop between the end of the bowel and the skin near the anus.

An anal fistula can cause bleeding and discharge when passing stools - and can be painful.

An anal fistula can occur after surgery to drain an anal abscess.

In some cases, an anal fistula causes persistent drainage. In other cases, where the outside of the channel opening closes, the result may be recurrent analabscesses. The only cure for an anal fistula is surgery.

Symptoms of anal fistulas

Possible symptoms include:

• Pain, which is usually constant, throbbing and worse when sitting down
• Skin irritation around the anus, includingswelling, redness and tenderness
• Discharge of pus or blood
• Constipation or pain associated with bowel movements
• Fever

Diagnosis of anal fistulas

Usually, a clinical evaluation - including a digital rectal examination - is sufficient to diagnose an anal fistula, but some patients may require additional tests to screen for:

• Sexually transmitted infections
• Inflammatory bowel disease
• Diverticular disease
• Rectal cancer

In rare cases, an examination may be done under anaesthesia. The doctor may also ask for an ultrasound, a CT scan or an MRI.

Treatment of anal fistulas

The type of surgery will depend on the position of your anal fistula. The options include:

• Fistulotomy. This is used in 85-95% of cases and involves cutting open the whole length of the fistula in order for the surgeon to flush out the contents. This heals after one to two months into a flattened scar.
• Seton techniques. A seton is a piece of thread which is left in the fistula tract. This may be considered if you are at high risk of developing incontinence when the fistula crosses the sphincter muscles. Sometimes several operations are necessary.
• Advancement flap procedures. This option is usually when the fistula is considered complex, or is there is a high risk of incontinence. The advancement flap is a piece of tissue that is removed from the rectum or from the skin around the anus. During surgery, the fistula tract is removed and the flap is reattached where the opening of the fistula was. The operation is effective in about 70% of cases.
• Fibrin glue. This is currently the only non-surgical treatment option. The glue is injected into the fistula to seal the tract, then the opening is stitched closed. It is a simple, safe and painless procedure, but long term results for this method are poor. Initial success rates as high as 77% drop to 14% after 16 months.
• Bioprosthetic plug. This is a cone shaped plug made from human tissue, which is used to block the internal opening of the fistula. Stitches keep it in place. However, this does not completely seal the fistula, so that it can continue to drain. New tissue usually grows around the plug to heal the fistula. Two trials show success rates of over 80% for this method, but long term success rates are uncertain.

After the operation

After surgery, most people are prescribedmedicine for pain relief. For otherwise healthy people, antibiotics are usually not needed. Antibiotics may be required, though, for some people, including those with diabetes or decreased immunity. Most people are able to move around and eat and drink once the anaesthetic has worn off. You may be able to go home the same day, but a longer stay in hospital may be necessary if surgery is more complicated. People can expect to lose only a minimal amount of time from work or school.

People will usually wear a dressing over the wound until it is healed. A district nurse may visit to help you change the dressing and check the wound is healing. Most wounds take about six weeks to heal. Stool softeners may be recommended to ease the discomfort of bowel movements. Some people may be advised to wear a gauze pad or mini-pad to prevent the drainage from soiling their clothes.

Seek medical advice if you experience complications after surgery, which can include:

• Heavy bleeding
• Increased pain, swelling or discharge
• A high temperature of 38C (100.4F) or more
• Nausea
• Constipation
• Difficulty passing urine
• Infection
• Troublesome scarring