Recovery & Precautions After Anal Fistula Surgery

Medications To Take During Recovery

Patients may need to take different types of medication for a short period after their fistula surgery to manage or prevent pain, constipation, and infections. Simple analgesics like paracetamol or ibuprofen are excellent choices to reduce pain after the anesthetic has worn off. 

It is good to avoid opioid medications like codeine, which can cause constipation. Also, never take over-the-counter pain medication if you are on prescription medication for pain. 

Pain medication should be taken a quarter of an hour before going to the toilet to ease defecation pain during this period. Prophylactic antibiotics may be used to lower the risk of infection in the area before and after the procedure. 

Exercises To Do For A Better Recovery

These exercises can help in proper recovery after your anal fistula surgery.

Pilates

Pilates can help improve posture, strengthen core muscles, and reduce stress in the anal area. Incorporate exercises like plank, toe taps, single leg stretch, etc., into your daily routine to keep your body strong after surgery.  

Walking

Walking keeps your body moving and reduces pain associated with surgery. Aim for at least 30 to 40 minutes of walking daily, or break it into smaller chunks throughout the day.

Swimming

Swimming is one of the best exercises during recovery as it helps reduce inflammation and boost mobility. Just be sure to avoid strokes that pressure your lower back or abdomen.

Yoga

Certain yoga poses can help relieve pain after surgery by increasing circulation to the affected area and improving posture. Try some of the poses, like pigeon pose, seated twist pose, etc., daily to keep your body healthy.

Core Exercises

A strong core can help relieve pain associated with surgery. Try doing planks, side planks, crunches, and other core exercises for a few minutes each day to keep your core muscles firm.

Stretching

Stretching the lower back, legs, and hips can enhance flexibility and ease tension in the affected area. It is vital to warm up before stretching and focus on deep breathing during the exercises.

Kegel exercises

Kegel exercises help strengthen the muscles around your anus, improving circulation and reducing strain in the area. Practice squeezing and relaxing the muscles several times daily to keep them strong and healthy.

Precautions To Be Taken After Fistula Surgery

Do not perform strenuous activities

You can start doing regular work after a few days of surgery. Yet, you should avoid heavy lifting or physical activities such as outdoor sports for a considerable period. 

Do not ignore bloating after fistula surgery

If there is bloating and you can’t pass gas due to a complication around the surgical wound, consult your doctor if it persists. Never ignore such complications if you want to enhance your recovery without further complications.

Consult a doctor in case of nausea

If you encounter feelings of vomiting or nausea, a high fever that stays for hours, or continuous bleeding from the surgical wound, contact your doctor instantly instead of taking care of the wound yourself. 

When Should You Consult A Healthcare Provider After Your Anal Fistula Surgery?

Consult your healthcare provider or seek immediate medical care if:

• You have pain that does not improve after taking pain relievers or other medications.
• You have wound or incisional problems (increased pain, discolorations, or concerns regarding infection).
• You have blood clots in your urine. 
• You cannot urinate.
• You have a fever greater than 100.5 F for 24 hours. 
• You are going through abdominal distress (nausea, vomiting, bloating, gas cramps, and hiccoughs).