An anal fissure is a tear or cut in the lining of the anus. This condition is a common cause of anal pain and bleeding during bowel movements. In most cases, anal fissures heal on their own or with non-surgical treatment.

However, in some cases, surgery may be necessary. In this article, we will discuss the symptoms, causes, diagnosis, conservative treatment, and surgery for anal fissures.

Symptoms of Anal Fissures

The main symptom of an anal fissure is pain during bowel movements. This pain is usually described as a sharp, intense, or burning sensation. The pain can last for several hours after a bowel movement. Other symptoms of anal fissures can include:.

Bleeding during bowel movements
Itching or irritation around the anus
A small lump or skin tag around the anus

Causes of Anal Fissures

Anal fissures can be caused by a variety of factors. The most common cause is constipation or straining during bowel movements. This can cause the anal muscles to spasm, which can lead to a tear or cut in the lining of the anus.

Other causes of anal fissures can include:.

Diarrhea
Crohn’s disease
Ulcerative colitis
Anal sex
Childbirth
Colon cancer
Anal trauma

Diagnosis of Anal Fissures

To diagnose an anal fissure, your doctor will perform a physical exam and ask about your symptoms. They may also perform a digital rectal exam to check for any abnormalities in the anus or rectum.

In some cases, your doctor may recommend a colonoscopy or other diagnostic tests to rule out other conditions.

Conservative Treatment for Anal Fissures

Most anal fissures can be treated with conservative or non-surgical treatments. These treatments can help to relieve pain and promote healing. Some of the most common conservative treatments for anal fissures include:.

Increase fiber intake to soften stools and prevent constipation
Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated
Use over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, to relieve pain
Apply an over-the-counter topical cream or ointment to soothe the anus and reduce inflammation
Sit in a warm sitz bath for 10 to 15 minutes several times a day to promote healing and relieve pain

Surgery for Anal Fissures

In some cases, surgery may be necessary to treat anal fissures that do not respond to conservative treatment. The most common surgical treatment for anal fissures is a procedure called a lateral internal sphincterotomy.

During this procedure, the surgeon cuts a small portion of the anal sphincter muscle to relieve pressure on the anus and allow the fissure to heal.

Conclusion

Anal fissures are a common cause of anal pain and bleeding during bowel movements. Most anal fissures can be treated with conservative treatments, such as increasing fiber intake and using over-the-counter pain relievers and topical creams.

However, in some cases, surgery may be necessary to treat anal fissures that do not respond to non-surgical treatment. If you experience symptoms of an anal fissure, be sure to speak with your doctor to discuss your treatment options.