Anal fissure

Source: NHS

An anal fissure is a small cut or tear in the lining of the anus. The crack in the skin causes severe pain and some bright red bleeding during and after bowel movements. At times the fissure is deep enough to expose the muscle tissue underneath.

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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).