ANAL FISSURE

Overview & Facts

  • A small cut or tear in the lining of the anus that exposes the muscle tissue underneath, causing severe pain and bleeding during and after bowel movements.
  • May happen as a result of childbirth, straining during bowel movements, or long periods of constipation or diarrhea.
  • Can affect people of all ages.
    • Usually seen in infants and young children.
  • Usually not a serious condition; In most cases, the tear heals on its own within four to six weeks.
  • Certain treatments can promote healing and help relieve discomfort, including stool softeners and topical pain relievers.
    • For unresponsive fissures, surgery may be required.

Types & Symptoms

Symptoms may be the following:

  • a visible tear in the skin around the anus.
  • a skin tag, or small lump of skin, next to the tear.
  • sharp pain in the anal area during bowel movements.
  • streaks of blood on stools or on tissue paper after wiping.
  • burning or itching in the anal area.

Diagnosis & Medications

DIAGNOSIS

  • Physician may do/request:
    • History & Physical Exam
  • Other additional tests such as:
    • Endoscopy/Colonoscopy

 

RECOMMENDED MEDICATIONS

  • Most anal fissures don’t require extensive treatment.
  • Certain home remedies can help promote healing and relieve uncomfortable symptoms, such as:
    • using over-the-counter stool softeners.
    • taking fiber supplements and increasing intake of fibrous foods, such as raw fruits and vegetables.
    • taking warm baths called Sitz baths to relax the anal muscles, relieve irritation, and increase blood flow to the anorectal area.
    • applying a nitroglycerin ointment.
    • applying topical pain relievers.

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