Anal Fissures: Symptoms and Treatment Options - Gastroenterology and Hepatology

The issue of anal fissures?

Hello, I have been experiencing issues with anal fissures.
Sometimes after using the restroom, I feel pain in the anal area, and after applying medication, I notice a painful spot inside the anal opening (which I believe is a wound).
However, I have also noticed that on several occasions, the area surrounding the anal opening is painful as well.
After using the restroom, rinsing with water also causes pain.
I would like to know if these symptoms are related to anal fissures, since the pain is not just at the anal opening but also on the outside.
Thank you for your clarification, doctor.

Li, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/10/28

Dr. Yang Zhichao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Dear Mr./Ms.
Li, based on your description, both internal hemorrhoids and anal fissures are possible.
If you would like to know more details, please visit the colorectal surgery department for further examination.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.

Reply Date: 2015/10/28

More Info

Anal fissures are small tears in the lining of the anus, often resulting from trauma during bowel movements, particularly when passing hard stools. They can cause significant pain, especially during and after bowel movements, and may lead to discomfort even when not actively using the restroom. The symptoms you describe, including pain after defecation and tenderness around the anal area, are indeed consistent with anal fissures.

Symptoms of Anal Fissures
1. Pain: The hallmark symptom of an anal fissure is sharp pain during and after bowel movements. This pain can be severe and may last for several hours.

2. Bleeding: You may notice bright red blood on the toilet paper or in the toilet bowl after a bowel movement.

3. Discomfort: Some individuals experience a dull ache or discomfort in the anal area, which can persist even when not having a bowel movement.

4. Tightness or Spasms: The anal sphincter may spasm, leading to further discomfort and difficulty with bowel movements.

Treatment Options
1. Dietary Changes: Increasing fiber intake can help soften stools, making them easier to pass. Foods rich in fiber include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. Staying well-hydrated is also crucial.

2. Topical Treatments: Over-the-counter creams or ointments containing hydrocortisone can reduce inflammation and pain. Additionally, topical anesthetics may provide temporary relief.

3. Sitz Baths: Soaking in warm water for 10-15 minutes several times a day can help soothe the area and promote healing.

4. Medications: In some cases, doctors may prescribe medications to help relax the anal sphincter, which can alleviate pain and promote healing.

5. Surgery: If conservative treatments fail, surgical options such as lateral internal sphincterotomy may be considered. This procedure involves cutting a small portion of the anal sphincter muscle to relieve tension and promote healing.

When to Seek Medical Attention
If you experience persistent pain, significant bleeding, or if the fissure does not improve with home treatment, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider. They can perform a thorough examination to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions, such as hemorrhoids or infections.

Conclusion
Based on your symptoms, it is likely that you are experiencing an anal fissure. The pain you feel around the anus, especially after bowel movements, aligns with typical presentations of this condition. It is advisable to implement dietary changes and consider topical treatments to manage your symptoms. If your symptoms persist or worsen, seeking medical advice is crucial for appropriate management and to prevent complications. Remember, maintaining a healthy bowel routine is key to preventing future occurrences of anal fissures.

Similar Q&A

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, 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 Painful Anal Fissures: Treatment Options for Relief

Hello Dr. Liu, my wife has been experiencing constipation issues. She has seen a doctor before, but now she has developed an anal fissure. It hurts so much that she experiences pain even while sleeping or sitting, to the point of tears. Her mood has also worsened significantly. C...

Dr. Liu Jianting reply Urology
"Of course it can be extremely painful. Please take her to the hospital to see a colorectal surgeon for examination and treatment as soon as possible."

Understanding Chronic Anal Fissures: Symptoms, Treatment, and Surgery Options

Hello, doctor. I have been experiencing symptoms of anal fissures for a while. Occasionally, when I have a bowel movement, it hurts a bit, and there is bleeding. The amount of blood varies; sometimes it's just a little, and other times it's more. Usually, the front part...

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery
If anal fissures persist for more than three months without improvement, they can be classified as chronic anal fissures. If symptoms can be alleviated through dietary changes and improved bowel habits, surgery may not be necessary. However, if symptoms continue to be bothersome ...