What is an Anal Fissure?

An anal fissure is a small tear in the delicate tissue lining the anus. This tear typically occurs when passing hard or large stools, leading to sharp pain and bright red bleeding during or after bowel movements. Most anal fissures heal on their own with proper care, but when they last longer than six weeks, they become chronic and require medical intervention. Treatments often include sitz baths, topical ointments, and dietary changes to soften stools and reduce strain. For persistent cases, surgery may be necessary.

Symptoms of Anal Fissures

If you’re dealing with an anal fissure, you’ll likely experience the following symptoms:

  • Severe pain during bowel movements: Pain can be intense during the passage of stools and continue for hours afterward.
  • Bleeding: You might notice bright red blood on the surface of your stool, in the toilet, or on toilet paper.
  • Visible cracks: Small, visible skin tears around the anus can be a sign of a fissure.
  • Itching or burning: The area around the fissure may become irritated and cause discomfort, especially after a bowel movement.
  • Lumps or skin tags: Chronic fissures may lead to the formation of small skin tags near the tear.

If you’re experiencing these symptoms, it’s important to consult a doctor to rule out other possible conditions like hemorrhoids or infections.

Causes of Anal Fissures

Internal and External Hemorrhoids,Hemorrhoids and Anal Fissures

Several factors can cause or contribute to anal fissures. The most common cause is trauma to the anal canal due to passing hard or large stools. Other contributing factors include:

  • Constipation: Chronic constipation leads to straining during bowel movements, which increases the risk of fissures.
  • Diarrhea: Frequent diarrhea can irritate the anal lining and cause tearing.
  • Childbirth: The strain of delivery, particularly in vaginal births, can cause fissures in women.
  • Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): Conditions like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis increase the risk of developing fissures due to inflammation in the digestive tract.
  • Anal intercourse: This activity can lead to tearing of the anal tissue.
  • Underlying health conditions: Conditions such as HIV, tuberculosis, herpes, or syphilis may increase the likelihood of developing fissures.

By identifying the cause, doctors can recommend appropriate treatment strategies to prevent further injury and encourage healing.

Treatment Options for Anal Fissures

In most cases, anal fissures can heal without the need for surgery. Here are some effective treatments to alleviate symptoms and promote healing:

  1. Topical Ointments: Prescription ointments containing ingredients like nitroglycerin or diltiazem help relax the muscles around the anus, improving blood flow and promoting healing. Over-the-counter pain relievers can also help with discomfort.
  2. Vaseline for Fissures: Applying Vaseline (petroleum jelly) to the affected area can lubricate the skin, reducing friction and easing pain. It provides a protective barrier that helps prevent further damage during bowel movements.
  3. Sitz Baths: Soaking in warm water several times a day can soothe the anal area, relax the muscles, and promote healing. This is a simple and effective method to reduce pain.
  4. Dietary Changes: Eating a high-fiber diet is crucial to preventing hard stools, which often trigger or worsen fissures. Fiber helps to soften stools and promotes regularity, reducing the need for straining during bowel movements. Hydration is equally important, as drinking plenty of water keeps stools soft and easier to pass.
  5. Over-the-counter Pain Relievers: Medications like ibuprofen can help reduce the pain and inflammation associated with anal fissures.
  6. Stool Softeners: If constipation is the cause, stool softeners can make bowel movements easier and less painful.

For more information on non-surgical treatments, visit:
Non-Surgical Fissure Treatment

How to Know If Your Fissure Is Healing

Here are a few signs that indicate your fissure is improving:

  • Reduced pain: If the intense pain you experienced during bowel movements begins to decrease, it’s a good sign that the fissure is healing.
  • Less bleeding: As the fissure heals, you will notice less bleeding during and after bowel movements.
  • Discharge: In some cases, mild discharge may occur as the fissure heals, which is normal.
  • Decreased itching and irritation: These symptoms should lessen as the fissure heals.

Regular monitoring and consultation with your doctor will help ensure proper recovery.

Anal Fissure Surgery

If conservative treatments don’t resolve the issue or if you have a chronic fissure, your doctor may recommend surgery. One of the most common procedures is Lateral Internal Sphincterotomy (LIS). During this surgery, the surgeon cuts a small portion of the anal sphincter muscle to reduce spasms and promote healing. While effective, this procedure carries a small risk of incontinence, which your doctor will discuss with you beforehand.

Learn more about fissure surgery options here:
Best Treatment for Fissures

Preventing Anal Fissures

While you can’t always prevent fissures, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk:

  • Eat a high-fiber diet: This helps prevent constipation and keeps your stools soft.
  • Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water makes it easier to pass stools without straining.
  • Practice good hygiene: Keep the anal area clean and dry, using mild soap and water.
  • Avoid straining: Try not to strain during bowel movements, and don’t delay going to the bathroom when you feel the urge.
  • Change diapers frequently: For infants, frequent diaper changes can reduce the risk of developing anal fissures.

For more preventative tips, visit:
Anal Fissure Treatment Options

FAQs

Is Vaseline good for fissures?
Yes, applying Vaseline to the fissure helps by lubricating the skin, reducing friction, and easing discomfort during bowel movements. It also acts as a barrier to protect the skin and support healing.

Why do I keep getting anal fissures?
Recurrent fissures may be caused by underlying issues such as chronic constipation, diarrhea, or an underlying health condition like Crohn’s disease. Consult a doctor for an accurate diagnosis and long-term treatment.

What happens if a fissure goes untreated?
If a fissure doesn’t heal within six weeks, it becomes chronic. Untreated fissures can lead to severe pain, infections, and complications, so it’s essential to seek treatment if symptoms persist.

For more information, visit:
Chronic Anal Fissure Treatment
Piles Fissure Treatment