Multiple Fistuas?

[TotallyConfused]

I recently had a partial scope of the colon done in the Dr's office, prior to a full colonoscopy.  A fistula was discovered.  I had never heard of this before and was a little taken aback.  I've since done some research and now understand about some of the symptoms I've exerienced.  The fistula is from the colon and exists between my cheeks near the tailbone.  I've been having problems with discharge of pus, blood and watery stool from this area for over 25 years and never knew what it was.  I was embarrassed to ask the Dr. about it.  Now that I know what it is, I've realized that I also have a similar problem with the same type of discharge from the vagina and navel.  The vaginal discharge has been over the last couple of years, and since I've 50, I figured it was related to "the change".  The problem with the navel started about 8 years ago, just after I had my gallbladder removed laproscopically.  I thought it was just an infection and would treat it with soap and water.  Would it be possible that I have multiple fistulas?  What would be the cause?  I'm still waiting for a full colonoscopy, but that is about a month away.  I also have GERD, hiatis hernia, an epogastric hernia, which really hurts.  I've been experiencing pain in the lower right quadrant.  It feel like a swelling, cronic discomfort, but not piercing pain.  

Any ideas as to what I'm faced with?  The Dr. said that he will repair the fistula he found, along with the hernia when he does the colonoscopy.  I'm having that done on a Friday.  Any idea how long I can expect to be off work?  

Thank you so much of your help.

[Pam 2006]

I am in response to your post on Rectal Fistulas.

I had 11 surgeries , over 2 years,for a Rectal Fistual. (Not normal) Had the same symptoms you had.  No diseases.

If you have been diagnosed with a Fistula, the only thing that worked for me was a seton placed in through the rectum and out of the open area on your buttocks.  Each week, I would go to have it tightened. Took about 6 weeks for me. I will not lie to you, it was painful but pain meds helped a great deal along with sitz baths. I finally healed inside/out

This was the 2nd time that I tried the seton. It was too painful for me the first time.
I have tried Fibrin Glue and cutting away some of the sphincter muscle,but that didn't work.

My doctor called it a miracle because he wanted to do a colostomy.  I almost did, but tried the seton again.

I have been free of this annoying problem for 2 years. The only thing that I was left with was sometimes I can't get to the bathroom in time. Very rare tho. Alot of the muscle was cut away. I could have it fixed, but choose not to because it is not that bad.  Kind of use to it now.

I am ever so greatful that my doctor was compassionate and caring enough to help me.
Please find a doctor that is up to date on the procedures for a Rectal Fistula.  Choose a colorectal surgeon.  Search in your city and state.  And by all means... Ask questions.

I wish you luck with this problem.  Be agressive and hang in there.  There is hope!

[Kevin Pho, MD]

The time off work would depend on what was found on the colonoscopy, based on the extent of the disease.

If fistulas are present, possible surgical repair may be needed.  The colonoscopy would be helpful in determinine the amount and extent of the fistulas.  

Multiple fistulas may also be a manifestation of Crohn's disease.  Again, biopsies and the colonoscopy would be helpful in ruling this possibility out.  

These options should be discussed with your personal physician.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
kevinmd_

[TotallyConfused]

Sorry, I forgot to mention that I my blood work is showing low ferritin levels - very low and I've notice that my stool is long and thin.  I don't know if that has anything to do with the fistulas or the cause, but just thought that I should mention this.

Thanks!!!