Anal Fissure
What is an anal fissure?
An anal fissure is a small tear or cut in the lining of the anus that fails to heal. Fissures can be acute (short-term) or chronic (lasting longer than 6 weeks).
What causes an anal fissure?
Straining during bowel movements: Passing hard or large stools can cause tears in the delicate lining of the anus.
Constipation or diarrhoea: Conditions that lead to frequent bowel movements or difficulty passing stools can contribute to fissures.
Childbirth: In women, childbirth can sometimes lead to anal fissures due to pressure during delivery.
What are the symptoms of a fissure?
Pain during bowel movements: This can be severe and may last for a few hours.
Bleeding: Bright red blood on the stool or toilet paper.
Itching or irritation: Around the anal area.
What is the treatment?
Lifestyle changes: Increasing fibre intake, drinking more fluids and avoiding straining during bowel movements can help fissures heal.
Prescription medications: In some cases, doctors may prescribe medications to help relax the sphincter muscles to promote healing.
In chronic or severe cases where conservative measures fail, medical procedures like Botox injections or surgery may be considered.
It is important to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment, as some symptoms of anal fissures can be similar to other conditions like haemorrhoids or more serious issues such as colorectal cancer.