Anal Pain: Causes and Solutions for Tailors

What should I do about anal pain?

Doctor, I am a tailor and I am wondering if my long hours of sitting have caused some issues.
Recently, I have been experiencing what feels like fissures around my anus, and there is pain, especially during bowel movements.
What could be the cause of this, and how can I improve the situation?

Ru, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2003/07/26

Dr. Hou Yongji reply Surgery

1.
Anal pain is a complex condition with many potential causes, so it is recommended to seek medical attention for a thorough examination.
2.
If there is an anal fissure, it can certainly cause pain, primarily due to tears caused by hard stools, while a smaller portion of individuals may experience tears that are difficult to heal due to inadequate local blood flow.
The main treatment approach is to maintain cleanliness in the anal area and use stool softeners.
Chronic anal fissures may require surgical intervention.
It is important to discuss the specific situation with your treating physician.
Colorectal Surgeon Dr.
Hou Yong-ji.

Reply Date: 2003/07/26

More Info

Anal pain, particularly in individuals who spend long hours sitting, such as tailors, can often be attributed to several factors, including anal fissures, hemorrhoids, or muscle tension. Given your description of experiencing pain during bowel movements and the sensation of a possible tear, it is likely that you are dealing with an anal fissure.
An anal fissure is a small tear in the lining of the anus, which can occur due to various reasons, including passing hard stools, prolonged sitting, or straining during bowel movements. The pain associated with fissures is typically sharp and can be quite severe, especially during and after bowel movements. This condition can lead to a cycle of pain and avoidance, where the fear of pain causes you to hold back on bowel movements, which can further exacerbate the issue.

In addition to fissures, prolonged sitting can contribute to the development of hemorrhoids, which are swollen veins in the lower rectum and anus. Hemorrhoids can cause discomfort, itching, and bleeding, especially during bowel movements. The pressure from sitting for extended periods can exacerbate these conditions.

To alleviate your symptoms and promote healing, consider the following strategies:
1. Dietary Changes: Increase your fiber intake by consuming more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. This can help soften your stools and make bowel movements easier, reducing the strain on your anal area. Additionally, ensure you are drinking plenty of water throughout the day.

2. Sitz Baths: Taking warm sitz baths for about 15-20 minutes several times a day can help soothe the area, promote blood flow, and aid in healing. This can also provide relief from pain and discomfort.

3. Avoid Straining: When you feel the urge to have a bowel movement, try to go as soon as possible. Avoid straining, as this can worsen fissures and hemorrhoids. If you find yourself straining frequently, it may be beneficial to consult with a healthcare provider for further evaluation.

4. Topical Treatments: Over-the-counter topical treatments, such as hydrocortisone creams or anesthetic ointments, can provide temporary relief from pain and inflammation. However, it's essential to follow the instructions and consult with a healthcare provider if symptoms persist.

5. Modify Sitting Habits: As a tailor, you may need to adjust your sitting posture or take regular breaks to stand and stretch. Consider using a cushion designed to relieve pressure on the anal area while sitting.

6. Consult a Healthcare Provider: If your symptoms persist or worsen despite these measures, it is crucial to seek medical attention. A healthcare provider can perform a thorough examination to rule out other potential causes of anal pain and may recommend additional treatments, such as prescription medications or, in some cases, surgical options for severe fissures or hemorrhoids.

In summary, while your symptoms may be related to anal fissures due to prolonged sitting and straining, implementing dietary changes, practicing good bowel habits, and seeking medical advice can significantly improve your condition. Remember, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment options tailored to your specific situation.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Deep Anal Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help

Hello Doctor: I have a history of irritable bowel syndrome, and whenever I experience frequent diarrhea, I feel a deep aching pain in my anus, which resembles coccyx pain. This discomfort radiates from the coccyx to the lower abdomen in a triangular pattern. I felt quite uncomfor...

Dr. Xu Kaixi reply Surgery
The soreness deep in the anus may be due to nerve pain associated with the contractions of the colon before, during, or after the process. Pain relievers can be taken to help alleviate this discomfort.

Understanding Anal Pain: Insights on Hemorrhoids and Treatment Options

Hello Dr. Ke: Since September 2020, I have been experiencing anal pain, which has been diagnosed by several colorectal specialists as mild internal hemorrhoids and a small external hemorrhoid. I have undergone ligation surgery, a flexible sigmoidoscopy, and an MRI of the lower ab...

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery
If a colonoscopy has not been performed, it is advisable to schedule an examination of the entire colon to check for any issues. If the colon is found to be normal, at this age, it is also possible that the pain could be due to sacral nerve pain or pelvic pain syndrome. You may c...

Understanding Anal Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Doctor, about seven days ago in the evening, I suddenly felt pain in my anus. At that time, the pain occurred during contractions, and I was experiencing diarrhea. Later, it progressed to a point where I felt bloated and painful regardless of what I was doing, and the contraction...

Dr. Zhang Shuhao reply Surgery
It may be a symptom of anal fissure. It is recommended to take warm sitz baths and to take oral anti-inflammatory pain relief medication. Consult a colorectal specialist to examine the anal and rectal lesions. Maintain a light diet and increase fluid intake; in most cases, conser...

Understanding Anal Discomfort: Causes and Solutions for Relief

Doctor, I would like to ask about a situation I'm experiencing. I feel slight itching, pain, and a burning sensation around my anus when I walk, especially when I sweat in my lower body at work. However, I haven't noticed any foreign objects or redness around the anal a...

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery
It is unlikely that a definitive diagnosis can be made based solely on a written description. It is possible that the itching is caused by inflammation of the skin around the anus. If self-treatment with ointments does not yield results, it is best to consult a physician for exam...