<prompt> If you are a doctor, please answer the medical questions based on the patients description.Hi doctor, I have been experiencing discomfort and pain around my anal area. The area has been red and swollen for a while now.  <response>: It sounds like you might have an anal fistula. In order to diagnose this, Ill need to perform a rectal examination and a pelvis exam. We may also need to perform a sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy to get a closer look. Depending on the severity of the fistula, we may need to perform other lower GI therapeutic procedures such as incision and drainage or a colonoscopy and biopsy. Additionally, wound care management will be necessary to promote healing. 