Anal fissure is a crack or tear in the lining of your anal canal. Its a common cause of anal pain and rectal bleeding, especially during bowel movements (pooping). Anal trauma usually causes a fissure, especially from straining to pass hard stools. Anal fissures can occur suddenly or gradually. They can also heal quickly or slowly.

Symptoms

The most common symptoms are:

• Sharp pain when pooping.

• Burning or itching with pooping.

• Fresh, red blood in your poop.

Causes

Several factors can contribute to the development of anal fissures:

• Constipation and straining

• Chronic diarrhea

• Childbirth

• Trauma

• Underlying conditions

Diagnosis

A healthcare expert will ask you about your symptoms before attempting to inspect the fissure. You'll lie on your stomach or side as they gently separate your buttocks. If this is too painful, they can stop here. They can reasonably conclude you have an anal fissure.

However, if you can tolerate an exam, they will attempt to see the fissure in order to rule out other potential reasons for your symptoms. They may gently insert a lubricated gloved finger to open your anus while noting any soreness or muscle spasms. This is a digital rectal examination.

Treatment Options

Most anal fissures heal within a few weeks with conservative treatment options. Chronic fissures may necessitate medical attention.

• Self-Care Measures: A high-fiber diet includes fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, which soften stools and reduce strain. Drinking plenty of water can help prevent constipation. Sitting in warm water for 10-15 minutes can soothe the area and promote healing.

• Medications: The anal sphincter is relaxed and blood flow is improved by topical creams that contain numbing agents, nitroglycerin, or calcium channel blockers. Bowel movements are made easier with the use of stool softeners.

• Medical Procedures: Botox injections will temporarily relax the anal sphincter, allowing the fissure to heal. In severe cases, a lateral internal sphincterotomy may be used to relieve muscle tension and promote healing.

Surgery

If your anal fissure does not heal with medicine, or if it returns after healing, you may require a minor medical surgery to break the pattern. Medications have mixed effectiveness for persistent anal fissures, but surgery has a 90% success rate. The technique is known as an internal sphincterotomy. While you are sedated, a colorectal surgeon makes a small cut into your anal sphincter muscle to permanently relieve stress. You can leave for home the same day you get up.

Prevention

If you have a chronic problem that affects your anus, such as a disease, difficulty pooping, or unexplained pain, consult a healthcare provider. Treating these diseases as soon as possible can help prevent consequences like anal fissures from occurring or recurring. Follow these guidelines to maintain regularity and avoid constipation before it becomes a medical issue.

Conclusion

Anal fissures, while unpleasant, are controllable with the proper technique. Early therapy and lifestyle adjustments can aid in healing and preventing recurrence. If symptoms persist or