Anal Fissure
Symptoms
Source: Diana Hysi
In this topic (6)
An anal fissure is a tear or open sore (ulcer) that develops in the lining of the anal canal.
The anal canal is the last part of the large intestine. It's located between the rectum where stools are stored and the opening in the bottom stools are passed through (anus).
Anal fissure symptoms
The most common symptoms of anal fissures are:
- a sharp pain when you pass stools, often followed by a deep burning pain that may last several hours
- bleeding when you pass stools, most people notice a small amount of bright red blood either in their stools or on the toilet paper
- a visible tear in the skin around your anus
- a skin tag, or small lump of skin, next to the tear
- streaks of blood or stools or on tissue paper after wiping
- burning or itching in the anal area
When to see your GP
See your GP if you think you have an anal fissure. Don't let embarrassment stop you seeking help: anal fissures are a common problem GPs are used to dealing with.
Most anal fissures get better without treatment, but your GP will want to rule out other conditions with similar symptoms, such as piles (haemorrhoids) .
Your GP can also tell you about self-help measures and treatments that can relieve your symptoms and reduce the risk of fissures recurring.
Articles for Anal Fissure
Causes
The most common cause for a fissure is frequent constipation. A few people experience defecating large and rigid feces which may damage the anal canal upon exit. Other causes include: Chronic diarrhea, ulcerative colitis, giving birth, pregnancy, sexually transmissible diseases, etc.
Diagnosis
A doctor will take a thorough history of your symptoms and their characteristics. The doctor may perform a rectal exam, during which they may observe the patient blood and pain upon pressure.
Introduction
An anal fissure is a small lesion in the lining of the anal canal. The crack in the skin causes severe pain and some bright red bleeding during and after bowel movements.
Prevention
Anal fissures usually heal within a few weeks without the need for treatment. However, they can easily recur if they're caused by constipation that remains untreated. Adopting some simple self-help measures can make passing stools easier. This will allow existing fissures to heal.
Symptoms
Symptoms of an anal fissure are pain during defecation which is accompanied with a deep, severe pain which lasts for several hours, bleeding during defecation, etc. It is recommended to see a physician after experiencing the aforementioned symptoms.
Treating anal fissures
Symptoms of anal fissures may pass without specific treatment. They can however return if patients to not undertake measures to prevent them, especially in trying to prevent constipation from occurring. In some patients, symptoms may last for six weeks or more (chronic fissure).
