Anal fissure – what is it?

Anal fissure is a common condition that can affect people of all ages.It is a rupture of the anal mucosa, which can be the source of many unpleasant symptoms.In this article, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, methods of diagnosis and treatment of this condition, and share recommendations for patients diagnosed with an anal fissure.

Causes of anal fissure

An anal fissure can have various causes, but most often it results from trauma or chronic constipation.The main risk factors are:

• Chronic constipation, which leads to severe tightening of the anal muscles during defecation.
• Injury or damage to the anal area, for example during childbirth.
• Digestive system diseases such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.
• Excessive consumption of alcohol or spicy foods, which can lead to irritation of the anal area.

Anal fissure – symptoms

Symptoms of anal fissure may be bothersome and affect the patient’s quality of life.The most common symptoms are:

• Pain around the anus during defecation.
• Bleeding after defecation.
• Itching and burning around the anus.
• Tightening of the muscles in the anus, which may lead to retention of gas.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you should consult your doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Diagnosis and treatment of anal fissure

Diagnosing an anal fissure usually involves a physical examination and an anascopy or rectoscopy, which allows for a detailed examination of the anus and confirmation of the presence of a fissure.

Treatment for an anal fissure can take several different forms, depending on the severity of the disease:

• Mild cases of anal fissure can be treated with dietary changes, introducing fiber and adequate hydration to prevent constipation.
• For more advanced fissures, it may be necessary to use ointments that help the mucous membrane heal.
• In extreme cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to remove damaged tissue and restore proper functioning of the anus.

Recommendations and tips for a patient with an anal fissure

If you have been diagnosed with an anal fissure or suspect its presence, it is important to follow certain recommendations and tips that will help you recover faster:

• Eating fiber and drinking enough water regularly to prevent constipation.
• Avoiding chronic tension of the anal muscles.
• Use painkillers as directed by your doctor.
• Regular check-ups with a specialist to monitor the progress of treatment.

Your suggestions

If you have any questions about anal fissure or would like to share your experiences, please feel free to leave a comment below the article.

Recommended articles

Below are links to other articles that may interest you:

• Constipation – causes, symptoms and treatment
• Crohn’s disease – what is worth knowing?
• Digestive system problems – how to deal with them?

Anal fissure can be a bothersome condition, but with proper diagnosis and treatment it can be effectively controlled.Do not ignore the symptoms and consult your doctor for professional medical care.