What is an Anal Fissure?
A crack or tear in the lining of the lower rectum (anal canal) is called as anal fissure. It can be very painful and may occur while passing large and hard stools, repeated diarrhea or strains during childbirth. Anal fissures are of two types- Acute and Chronic.
- a) Acute do not last longer than 6 months and can be self-cured
- b) Whereas chronic last longer than 6 weeks and need medication or even surgeries to heal.
Symptoms
- Stinking and burning sensations during bowel moments.
- Itching
- Dark red blood mixed with stool may be a sign of a more serious problem.
- Pain after bowel movements that can last up to several hours
- Visible crack in the skin around the anus
Cure
- Increasing intake of fiber and fluids
- Soaking oneself (Anus area) in warm water for 15-20 minutes several times a day
- Topical anesthetic creams or nitroglycerin can be applied externally for some relief in pain.
- If the medication remains ineffective then minimally invasive surgical procedure called lateral internal sphincterotomy (LIS), which involves cutting a small portion of the anal sphincter muscle to reduce spasm and pain, and promote healing is recommended by the surgeons. Its advantages involve faster recovery time, smaller incisions and lesser time in hospital.
