Patients who have anal fissure not only complain of bleeding but if a ripping or burning sensation in their anus. This complaint is usually felt during a bowel movement. If a fissure is big enough, the pain that is felt can last for more than several minutes and even hours. Explosive diarrhea and constipation are the major causes of trauma in the anal canal. Other factors that cause fissures include anal intercourse or the insertion of a foreign body in the anus. An inflammatory disease of the intestines may also be a factor.
The treatment for fissures is done in order to relieve the spasm, burning, irritation and inflammation in the anal area. Treatments are implemented to alleviate the pain that comes during and after passing of stool. Medicines and topical ointments are often used. Some conditions may require surgery while others necessitate therapy.
For patients with anal fissure, swimming can be an issue. Other people may be affected by the chlorine in swimming pools, while others may enjoy it. The key to swimming in chlorine-treated pools is to take a good shower after you swim. Applying soothing creams and ointments will help relieve the pain. You can use flax oil, wheatgerm oil and aloe vera. To clean up, use baby wipes instead of regular toilet paper. It is also good to take painkillers as necessary.
On the other hand, swimming in salt water, like the ocean, is like sitting in a giant warm tub bath or a sitz bath. It helps soothe the cuts. However, you should think twice about dipping in wild rivers because you never know what is in the water that you are going into. The water may be contaminated with animal feces and urine. Keep in mind that an anal fissure is a cut – an opening in your skin – making you susceptible to infection. You can also swim in hot springs as long as you can handle the heat.
If you have undergone a minor procedure or surgery involving your fissures, you need to take extra care to avoid further complications. You have to ensure that the healing process continues and you are reducing the pain. Here are some steps that you can take:
Limit your activities for a week and do not do any vigorous exercises for a month. However, swimming can still be done anytime. You may be more active three days after your procedure.
Take at least 3 hot baths a day to soothe the pain. Take a hot bath after swimming.
For two weeks, you may need to apply topical antibiotics, especially after swimming.
Remember to supplement your diet with high fiber foods.
As much as you can avoid diarrhea and constipation.
Having anal fissure does not have to limit your life. You can enjoy simple life pleasures such as swimming if you understand how to care for the tear in your anal area and improve its healing process. Hygiene is always important as well as taking precautionary measures to ensure that you avoid any infections.
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