Can people with anal fistula drink alcohol?
Patients with anal fistula are advised not to drink alcohol. As an anal fistula already features distinct external and internal openings as well as a fistulous tract, excessive or chronic alcohol consumption can stimulate recurrent local inflammatory episodes. This can cause an increase in the secretions from both openings, leading to varying degrees of anal pain and itching for the patient, worsening the condition, potentially increasing the branches of the fistula, or causing it to spread deeper or to other areas. Therefore, not only should patients with anal fistula abstain from alcohol, but they should also maintain a light diet rich in green vegetables and fruits. Once diagnosed, it is crucial for patients with anal fistula to undergo surgical treatment promptly. The primary surgical approach involves fistulotomy with seton placement. Postoperatively, attention must be paid to the dressing of the local wound to avoid pseudo-healing and infection.