Anal Fissure
An anal fissure is a small tear or cut in the lining of the anus, the opening where stool exits the body. This tear can cause pain and bleeding during bowel movements. Anal fissures are common and usually occur due to passing hard or large stools, constipation, or straining during defecation. In some cases, chronic diarrhea, inflammation, or trauma to the area can also cause fissures.
Symptoms of an Anal Fissure:
• Sharp pain during and after a bowel movement
• Bright red blood on the stool or toilet paper
• Itching or irritation around the anus
• A visible tear or crack in the skin around the anus
• Spasm of the anal muscles
Causes of Anal Fissures:
• Constipation and passing large or hard stools
• Chronic diarrhea
• Straining during bowel movements
• Childbirth
• Inflammatory bowel disease (e.g., Crohn’s disease)
Treatment:
Most anal fissures heal on their own within a few weeks with conservative treatment, such as:
• Stool softeners or laxatives to ease bowel movements
• Increased fiber intake (fruits, vegetables, whole grains) to prevent constipation
• Hydration: Drinking plenty of water
• Warm sitz baths to relax the anal muscles and promote healing
• Topical ointments: Pain-relief creams, or medications to reduce sphincter muscle spasms (like nitroglycerin or calcium channel blockers)
In cases where fissures become chronic (lasting more than 6 weeks) or fail to heal with conservative measures, surgical intervention (like lateral internal sphincterotomy) may be needed to help relax the anal muscle and allow healing.