What is Anal Fissure?
An anal fissure is when the skin around the anus gets torn or cracked, causing a lot of pain. It can be very difficult to manage this condition, and it often recurs if not managed properly.
Anal fissure symptoms
The most common symptoms of anal fissures are:
- a sharp pain when you poo, often followed by a deep burning pain that may last several hours
- bleeding when you poo – most people notice a small amount of bright red blood either in their poo or on the toilet paper
To prevent anal fissures from occurring again, there are several things you should do:
As explain the best fissures treatment here are ten tips that may help prevent anal fissures from recurring:
1. Keep your stools soft
Soft stools will help reduce any strain when passing a bowel movement, making it less likely for an anal fissure to form. Make sure to drink plenty of fluids and include high-fiber foods in your diet, like fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains.
2. Avoid constipation
Constipation can increase pressure within and around the anus, leading to anal fissures. Taking medications encouraging bowel movement or using home remedies might be useful for constipation relief.
3. Exercise
Regular exercise is important for your overall health and may help prevent the recurrence of anal fissures by keeping you regular and reducing straining during bowel movements.
4. Stay hydrated
Dehydration can cause constipation, leading to a recurring anal fissure. Ensure to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day and avoid alcohol and caffeine, as these can worsen dehydration.
5. Clean the area after bowel movements
Use a soft cloth and warm water to gently cleanse the skin around your anus. It’s important to avoid using scented soaps or wipes as this could irritate the area further.
6. Don’t delay passing a bowel movement
If you feel the urge to go, move quickly to the bathroom and not wait. This can reduce the chances of constipation and straining when passing a bowel movement.
7. Avoid sitting for long periods
Sitting in one position for an extended period can increase pressure on the anus. Try to break up long periods of sitting by taking regular walks or standing-up breaks.
8. Provide heat & cold treatment
Anal fissures can be soothed through warm baths, hot packs, and cold compresses placed on the area for about 15 minutes several times a day. It’s important not to apply heat or cold for too long as this could cause skin irritation.
9. Maintain a healthy weight
Excess weight can increase the pressure on the anus and lead to recurring anal fissures. Eating a healthy, balanced diet and exercising regularly can help you maintain weight.
10. Stress management
Stress can cause the body to tense up, increasing pressure on the anus. So, manage stress levels through deep breathing exercises, yoga, or other relaxation techniques.
Lifestyle and home remedies
Several lifestyle changes may help relieve discomfort and promote healing of an anal fissure, as well as prevent one from coming back. Changes include:
- Adding fibre to your diet. Eating about 25 to 35 grams of fibre a day can help keep stools soft and improve fissure healing. Fibre-rich foods include fruits, vegetables, nuts and whole grains. You also can take a fibre supplement. Adding fibre may cause gas and bloating, so increase your intake gradually.
- Drinking adequate fluids. Fluids help prevent constipation.
- Not straining during bowel movements. Straining creates pressure, which can open a healing tear or cause a new tear.
- Sitting in a warm bath. Also called a sitz bath, soaking in a warm-water bath for 10 to 20 minutes several times a day can soothe the skin and promote relaxation. If possible, take a sitz bath after bowel movements.
If your infant has an anal fissure, change diapers often and wash the area gently. Also, be sure to discuss the problem with your child’s healthcare team.
These tips can help reduce the risk of recurring anal fissures and relieve current symptoms. If you have any concerns about preventing anal fissures, it’s important to discuss them with a doctor.
At Chirag Global Hospitals, we specialize in treating anal fissures and provide individualized treatment plans. Our team of experienced doctors will work closely with you to help provide relief and prevent anal fissures from recurring.
