Anal fissures and hemorrhoids share many common causes. You may even mistake one for another.

What are Anal Fissures?

Anal fissures are typically small tears in the anal canal that grow into significantly more invasive wounds. The skin around the anus is highly susceptible to tearing when stretched beyond capacity. The most common reason for this occurring is when a hard stool is making its way out of the anal canal.

The nature of a hardened stool is invasive and may damage parts of the canal as it travels through. Normally, when this occurs, it heals quickly and naturally. However, high sensitivity and regular pressure may lead to a cycle that creates a fissure where the internal sphincter muscle begins to spasm.

What Causes Anal Fissures

  • Constipation

Hard, dry stools that make one strain excessively to pass create undue pressure on the anal canal, stretching it to a point where it cannot accommodate the size of the stool thereby tearing the skin. If one tries to hold in the bowel movement due to excessive pain, the fissure will only decay further reducing any chance of healing. 

  • Diarrhea

When a stool is rapidly evacuated via the anal canal, a risk of breaking the skin internally may further irritate the fissures.

  • Childbirth

About half of all pregnant women will likely experience postpartum fissures. Constipation, weight increases, and the strains of labor and delivery, all add to the likelihood of damage.

  • Aging

As our body's ability to maneuver blood flow decreases with age, it affects blood circulation in the anal lining. This therefore decreases the strength of connective tissue and veins which leads to an increase in the risk of tearing the skin.

  • Inflammatory Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

IBS is known as Chron’s disease, causing chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. It can extend to the lower intestine where the anal canal liner is more susceptible to tearing.

  • Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI)

STIs may lead to fissures due to inflammation and irritation of the rectal lining.

  • Pre-existing Fissures

Long-term fissures tend to degrade over time if not managed surgically and will display difficulty in healing.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

  • Blood found on toilet paper or appearing across a stool or even in a red toilet bowl may be a direct symptom of an anal fissure. The healing process can experience an itchy sensation, in particular, when the fissure re-opens.

  • Pain and blood can be incorrectly identified as a hemorrhoid when in reality it is a fissure or tear. Sometimes chronic fissures mistaken for hemorrhoids are a skin tag. These may be completely pain-free or they can cause sharp pain during bowel evacuations. 

What is the Fastest Way to Heal After Fissure Surgery?

  • You may experience some bleeding and discharge immediately after the surgery. Try to keep the wound as clean and dry as possible. A sitz bath can help to keep the area clean.

  • Prevent straining during bowel movements as it risks opening the wound. Use a Squatty Potty to reduce the strain.

Preventative Measures

  • Once you’ve had an anal fissure, it is more likely you will experience them again unless you maintain habits to prevent fissures in the first place.

Also Read:-  Haemorrhoid Pain & How to Find Relief

Disclaimer

The information provided in this blog is intended for general informational purposes only. We do not offer medical advice under any circumstances. A medical professional must be consulted for any advice, diagnosis, or treatment of health-related issues. Reliance on any information provided is solely at your own risk. The author will not be held responsible for any misuse of this information. No guarantees are made either expressed or implied. If unsure about any information presented here, please seek medical advice before using any product suggested.

FAQs

Q:- Do anal fissures heal on their own?

Ans. Yes, most acute anal fissures heal on their own with self-care measures such as increasing fiber intake, drinking plenty of water, and taking sitz baths to keep the area clean and promote healing.

Q:- How long can an anal fissure last?

Ans. Acute fissures typically heal within 6 weeks with proper care. Chronic fissures, which last longer than 6 weeks, may require medical treatment such as topical medications or, in some cases, surgery.

Q:- What should you not do with a fissure?

Ans. Avoid straining during bowel movements, as this can worsen the fissure. Refrain from consuming caffeine and spicy foods, which can irritate the digestive tract and exacerbate symptoms.

Q:- What aggravates a fissure?

Ans. Constipation and passing hard stools can aggravate a fissure by causing further tearing. Diarrhea can also irritate the area and prevent healing. Maintaining regular, soft bowel movements is crucial.

Q:- Is anal fissure serious?

Ans. While anal fissures are usually not serious, they can be very painful. Most can be treated at home with self-care, but persistent or severe cases may require medical intervention to prevent complications.