Anal Fissures: Symptoms and Duration of Pain

Is it an anal fissure?

Doctor, I have normal bowel movements every day, but two days ago I suddenly had to strain a lot to pass a stool.
The next day, I began to feel a sharp, cutting pain in my anus, which has been persistently uncomfortable for two days now.
Can an anal fissure cause pain for many days? Thank you, doctor.

Huang, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/07/19

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

Based on your description, it seems more like the typical symptoms of an anal fissure, which include pain during bowel movements accompanied by slight bleeding.
The pain usually lasts for several days, sometimes exceeding a week.
The common causes are often constipation or diarrhea.
The fundamental treatment is to improve bowel habits, along with warm sitz baths.
Warm sitz baths can help alleviate pain, maintain cleanliness, and promote blood circulation.
You can also purchase hemorrhoid suppositories at the pharmacy for use.
If symptoms persist without improvement, it is advisable to consult a physician for further evaluation.

Reply Date: 2021/07/19

More Info

Anal fissures are small tears in the lining of the anus, often caused by passing hard or large stools. They can lead to significant discomfort and pain, especially during bowel movements. Based on your description, it seems that you may be experiencing the classic symptoms of an anal fissure, which typically include sharp pain during and after bowel movements, a burning sensation, and sometimes even bleeding.

The pain associated with anal fissures can indeed last for several days, especially if the fissure is not allowed to heal properly. In many cases, the initial pain may subside somewhat after a few days, but if the fissure is not treated or if you continue to have hard stools, the pain can persist or even worsen. The duration of pain can vary from person to person; some may experience relief within a week, while others may have discomfort for several weeks or longer if the fissure becomes chronic.

To manage the pain and promote healing, consider the following recommendations:
1. Dietary Changes: Increase your fiber intake to soften your stools. Foods rich in fiber include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. Staying well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water is also crucial.

2. Stool Softeners: Over-the-counter stool softeners can help make bowel movements easier and less painful.

3. Warm Baths: Taking warm sitz baths can help soothe the area and promote blood flow, which may aid in healing.

4. Topical Treatments: Over-the-counter creams or ointments that contain hydrocortisone or other soothing ingredients may provide relief from pain and inflammation.

5. Avoid Straining: When you feel the urge to have a bowel movement, try to go as soon as possible. Avoid straining, as this can exacerbate the fissure.

If your symptoms persist beyond a few days, or if you notice significant bleeding, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional. They may recommend further treatments, such as prescription medications or, in some cases, surgical options if the fissure does not heal with conservative measures.

In summary, while anal fissures can cause significant pain that may last for several days, proper management and treatment can help alleviate symptoms and promote healing. If you have any concerns or if your pain worsens, do not hesitate to seek medical advice.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Chronic Anal Fissures: Healing Time and Pain Management

I have had an anal fissure for 8 months. How much longer will it take to heal? My symptoms include pain but no bleeding. I have been worried about this every day. Thank you, doctor.

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery
The typical symptoms of anal fissures include pain during bowel movements accompanied by slight bleeding. The common causes are often constipation or diarrhea. The fundamental treatment is to improve bowel habits, along with warm sitz baths. Over-the-counter hemorrhoid suppositor...

Understanding Anal Fissures: Symptoms, Diet, and Recovery Time

What should I eat for anal fissures? The pain can be so severe that I can't sleep. How long will it take to heal? Also, for the past few days, my left buttock has been hard and painful. What could those two lines be?

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery
The typical symptoms of an anal fissure are pain during bowel movements accompanied by slight bleeding. The common causes are often constipation or diarrhea. The fundamental treatment is to improve bowel habits, along with warm sitz baths. Over-the-counter hemorrhoid suppositorie...

Understanding Anal Fissures: Symptoms, Treatments, and Management

Hello Doctor: Since late April to early May, after experiencing diarrhea, I began to have issues with anal fissures. Initially, the pain was very severe, and about a week later, I visited a clinic for treatment. After applying medication for about a week, I felt no discomfort. Ho...

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery
1. If the stool is hard, experiencing pain during bowel movements is a normal phenomenon and does not necessarily indicate an anal fissure. 2. If it is a self-paid purchase, I believe it is unnecessary because flavonoids are classified as food products and have not received medi...

Understanding Anal Fissures: Symptoms, Treatment, and When to Seek Help

Hello, Doctor: Recently, I had sexual intercourse with a male partner (with a condom), and due to insufficient lubrication, my anus was injured. The same day and the next day were fine; urination and bowel movements were relatively normal and not very painful. However, on the thi...

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery
Based on your description, it seems to be a typical symptom of anal fissure, which is characterized by pain during bowel movements accompanied by slight bleeding. If there is concurrent bleeding from hemorrhoids, the amount of blood may be greater. Severe anal fissures or those a...