What is an anal fissure?
An anal fissure refers to a small tear in the thin, moist tissue (mucosa) lining the anus. An anal fissure might happen when you pass large or hard stools during a bowel movement. Anal fissures usually cause bleeding and pain with bowel movements. You might also have spasms in the ring of muscle at the end of the anus (anal sphincter).
Anal fissures are more common in infants, but they can affect people of all ages.
What are the symptoms of an anal fissure?
If you have an anal fissure, you might experience certain symptoms, such as:
- Pain during and following bowel movements
- Bright red blood on the stool following a bowel movement
- A noticeable crack in the skin around the anus
- A small skin tag or lump on the skin near the anal fissure
If you have questions or concerns about your bowel movements and you’re experiencing symptoms, you should visit South Shore Surgical for an evaluation and treatment.
What causes an anal fissure?
The most common causes of an anal fissure include:
- Passing hard or large stools
- Straining and constipation during bowel movements
- Chronic diarrhea
- Anal intercourse
- Childbirth
- Crohn's disease and inflammatory bowel diseases
- Anal cancer
An anal fissure might also be caused by HIV, tuberculosis, and syphilis.
What are the treatments for an anal fissure?
Anal fissures can heal on their own in a couple of weeks. In some cases, further treatment might be necessary, such as topical creams and medications or surgery. Dr. Klonsky can help you determine the best way to treat your anal fissure during your personal consultation.
Surgery is often recommended to treat anal fissures, particularly chronic anal fissures that are resistant to other treatments. Dr. Klonsky usually provides surgery to cut away a small portion of the anal sphincter muscle to reduce spasms and pain and boost healing.
You might also want to try improving your lifestyle, such as eating a diet high in nutrient-dense and fiber-rich foods.
Don’t just deal with the discomfort and pain of an anal fissure, protect your digestive health and call South Shore Surgical or book online today.
