An anal fissure is defined as a small tear or crack in the skin and mucous membrane around the anus. This condition is usually caused by straining during defecation, constipation, diarrhea or trauma to the anus area. Anal fissure can cause symptoms such as pain, bleeding and itching. Rupture is usually accompanied by bleeding as a result of the blood vessels in the anus being affected.
Treatment usually involves dietary changes, increasing fiber intake, drinking enough water and sometimes topical creams or medications. In addition, surgical intervention may be required in some cases. The management of anal fissure varies depending on the individual's symptoms, health status and underlying causes. Therefore, with appropriate treatment and lifestyle changes, the symptoms of anal fissure can be controlled and recovery can be achieved.
What are the Symptoms of Anal Fissure?
Anal fissure can cause various symptoms due to a tear or crack around the anus. These symptoms include the following:
- It can cause severe pain, usually during and after defecation. The pain usually lasts for a few minutes to an hour.
- Bleeding may occur due to a tear in the anus. Blood on toilet paper or blood in the toilet during or after defecation.
- It can irritate the surrounding tissues and cause itching and burning sensation.
- The muscles around the anus can contract and tense due to the fissure, which can contribute to pain.
- In some cases, anal fissures can cause symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which can be associated with defecation.
What Causes Anal Fissure?
Anal fissure usually occurs during defecation as a result of severe constipation or overstraining. In addition, factors such as prolonged contact with the anus area, aggressive cleaning or the use of hard toilet paper can also contribute to fissure formation. Diarrhea or frequent soft stools can increase the risk of fissures by putting too much pressure on the anus.
Recurrent conditions can be seen in individuals who have previously had anal fistula. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can increase the risk of fissures by affecting defecation habits. In addition, intestinal diseases such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis can cause inflammation in the tissues around the anus, setting the stage for fissure formation.
How is Anal Fissure Diagnosed?
Anal fissure is usually diagnosed by a physical examination by a health professional and taking a patient history. The examination is performed painlessly to identify cracks in the anus area. A history is taken to assess symptoms, bowel habits and past history.
A digital rectal examination examines the internal tissues and determines the location of the crack. If necessary, imaging tests such as colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy are performed to examine the intestinal lining in detail. Once the diagnosis is made, the treatment plan is determined according to the patient's condition.
How is Anal Fissure Treatment Performed?
The treatment of anal fissure or rectal crack is usually determined depending on the severity of the symptoms, the location of the crack and the underlying causes. Treatment options include fibrous diet and drinking plenty of water, stool softeners, topical creams and ointments, anal hygiene, sitz baths, botulinum toxin injections and surgical intervention.
Eating a fibrous diet and drinking water can soften the stool and reduce the pressure on the anal area. Topical creams and ointments can reduce pain and inflammation, while stool softeners can help heal the crack. Sitz baths and anal hygiene measures can help keep the anal area relaxed and clean.
Botulinum toxin injections and surgical intervention are other treatment options that may be considered depending on the condition. Before starting any treatment, it is important to talk to a health professional.