Anal Fissure

An anal fissure is a small split or tear in the lining of the anal canal. Anal fissures may be caused by constipation, the passing of large, hard stools, or by prolonged diarrhea. An Anal fissure may occur secondary to decreased blood flow or trauma to the area.

Anal fissures are also common in women after childbirth and persons with Crohn’s disease.

Symptoms

An Anal fissure may cause painful bowel movements and bleeding. There may be blood on the outside of the stool or on the toilet tissue following a bowel movement.

Diagnosis and Treatment

To diagnose, your health care provider will perform a gentle inspection of the anus.

Home care treatments:

A diet high in fiber
Increased hydration
Numbing cream, if pain interferes with normal bowel movement
Warm sitz baths
Stool softeners

Physician treatments may involve:

Botox injections into muscle in the anus (anal sphincter)
Different prescription topical medications
Surgery if the fissure fails to heal

Prevention

To prevent fissures:

Take a fiber supplement daily
Keep the anal area dry
Wipe with soft materials or a moistened cloth or cotton pad

You Might Also Enjoy...

Rubber Band Ligation: The Gold Standard for Internal Hemorrhoid Treatment

Struggling with internal hemorrhoids? Discover how rubber band ligation, a nonsurgical and painless procedure, can provide relief. Learn why you might need RBL, its benefits, and what to expect. Find out if this gold standard treatment is right for you.

What You Need to Know About Anal Tags

l skin tags are common, noncancerous growths that form on the skin around the anus. While anal tags are usually pain-free, they can cause local irritation and itching. They can also resemble some more serious health conditions.

When Should I Seek Treatment for Hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids affect more than 30% third of Americans and account for 4 million doctor’s office and emergency room visits annually. These swollen veins, found in the anus and lower rectum, create symptoms ranging from mild to major.

Can an Anal Fistula Heal on Its Own?

Anal fistulas form when an abscess affects the anal area. An anal fistula is a tunnel between the skin of the buttocks and the anal canal. The condition can be painful—but can it heal on its own?

I’ve Been Diagnosed with Anal Warts; Now What?

Anal and genital warts result from HPV infection. Any sexual or skin-to-skin contact in the area around the anus could transmit an HPV strain that causes warts. Treatment depends on location and severity and typically involves topical solutions or surgery.

Chronic Anal Itching: When Should I Consult an Expert?

Anal itching can be embarrassing to talk about. It might not be a big deal if the problem is sporadic, but when it becomes chronic, you’ll want to find a solution, which may mean consulting an expert.