Anal fissure is a common bowel condition. It is a tear at the anorectal lining of the large intestine that is very painful during bowel movement. It also comes with other symptoms such as itchiness and swelling. Chronic constipation and diarrhea can further worsen the condition. The stool passing through the anal canal can further pull the edges of the tear. Further tearing of the anorectal lining can lead to bleeding. It is essential to achieve a smooth passage of stool upon bowel movement to prevent further scratching and pressure on the tear. Application of lubricants along the anal canal is one way to achieve it. Lubricant is a substance that can reduce the friction between two objects that are in contact.
Petroleum jelly is a lubricant that can usually be found at home. Petroleum jelly is usually used as moisturizer for dry skin areas. It is also commonly used to prevent rash formation among infants. Applying a small amount of petroleum jelly around the anal canal will surely help to smoothen the bowel experience. This can also help to reduce the time spent on bowel movement. Spending a lot of time for bowel movement is not good for an anal tear. This increases the time for the external and internal anal sphincters to contract. This can result to further tearing in the anal tissue.
Olive oil is another home remedy that can smoothen stool passage. This is also a form of lubricant that can help treat anal fissure. Approximately 50 ml of olive oil is needed to help soften the stool. This can be done as many times as possible when the situation requires it. Softening the stool will help to heal the tear in the anal canal.
Aloe vera is another effective lubricant that can be used to treat anal fissure. Aloe Vera has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce pain, swelling and infection. This can be applied on the affected area 3-4 times a day. Only a small amount is needed for it to be effective. Aloe Vera comes in gel type or ointment form.
Wheat germ oil can also be used as lubricant for anal tear. A small amount of wheat germ oil is applied over the tear. The oil should stay on the fissure for at least 30 minutes for it to be effective. A soft tissue can be used to wipe the oil from the fissure afterwards.
Coconut oil is known to be a very good moisturizer. It is also very popular for its healing properties. Coconut oil has long been used to treat different types of skin lesions including bed sores. It is very important to apply coconut oil over the anal fissure several times a day. If the anal tear is of the chronic type, it is best to continuously apply the oil to the area throughout the day and during bedtime.
These are just some of the best lubricants that can be used as treatment for anal fissure. Most of these are natural remedies that can be found inside the home. They are definitely less costly than mainstream medical treatment despite having the same potential to provide relief from anal tear.