An anal fissure is a tear or sore in the anus which is caused by several factors such as constipation, diarrhea, anal sex, giving birth, and other activities that put pressure at the anus. This condition can affect people of all ages but is mostly common among adults who are prone to the risk factors.
Ways on how to treat anal fissures in active and inactive adults are similar in most ways. For active adults though, engaging in daily exercise or sports is helpful in alleviating anal fissure. This is due to the benefit of physical activity on facilitating bowel movement, minimizing the pressure in the anus when passing stools. For inactive adults, increasing their movement, not necessarily exercise, like walking may also help.
Other treatment methods for anal fissure suggested for both active and inactive adults can be done at home and may require lifestyle modifications. One of these methods is increasing consumption of fiber-rich foods. Fiber softens the stool and helps the digestive system develop a regular movement. These foods include nuts, whole grains, bran, peas and beans, prunes, and citrus fruits.
Another treatment method is by drinking plenty of water, which also softens the stool and facilitates bowel movement. With or without the presence of anal fissures, adults must drink at least 8 glasses of water daily. Beverages rich in caffeine must be avoided because they can cause dehydration and hard stools. Prune juice should also be drank for a fiber-rich drink.
Proper position is the toilet also makes a difference. When sitting on the toilet, the feet should be supported by a small stool in order to place the body in a potion that puts less pressure in the anus.
When the fissure is still fresh and painful, a sitz bath three times a day may bring relief. This involves sitting over a basin with hot water for 20 minutes. The steam from the hot water will help heal the tear. It will also minimize the pain or itch.
One of the goals in treatment is to avoid further damage. Using wet wipes is better than using regular toilet paper. The moisture will minimize the friction during contact in the anus. Some hypoallergenic types are also gentle to the skin in the area.
For faster healing, some medications can be used on the affected region. Consulting a doctor for the correct medication and dosage is the best thing to do in this case. The doctor might prescribe creams and ointment to heal the wound in the anus. Over-the-counter laxatives may also be suggested if a fiber-rich diet does not help in softening the stool.
Developing a scheduled routine for bowel movement also signals the body to pass stools regularly. Regular defecation prevents hardening of stools in the lower digestive tract.
There are many ways on how to treat anal fissures in active and inactive adults that can be done at home. However, if the condition is chronic or keeps on coming back, a surgery may be needed.
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