Having an anal fissure is not a very pleasant experience as it makes the act of relieving oneself to be difficult and painful. In addition, the condition is not one to be easily distinguished or diagnosed early especially if a person does not know what makes it different from other anal problems and what could cause it. What is an anal fissure? Are constipation, anal fistula and diarrhea related to anal fissure? The information below might help clear up the confusion.
Constipation and Diarrhea
These two digestive tract problems have been primary causes for the development of anal fissures. However, the way they inflict stress on the anal muscles is very different. Constipation is characterized by large and hard stools which can be formed when one decides to put off bowel movement for a later period. The end result is that the feces intended to be released hardens which results in a very uncomfortable bowel movement. Normally, hardened stool is too large for the passage which causes trauma on the anoderm resulting in a wound or fissure.
Diarrhea, on the other hand, puts strain on the anal muscles through constant bowel movement. Though the feces is characterized by its liquid and runny consistence, which easily passes through the anus, the constant muscle spasms in the rectum is enough to put a strain on the passage, leading to a fissure.
Fissures and Fistulas
A fistula is technically another wound on the anal muscles though it is caused directly not by strain on the anoderm but by the infection known as an abscess. An abscess is characterized by a lump on the surface of the anal tissue which contains a considerable amount of pus. This is most likely caused by bacteria mainly from fecal matter that seeps in the tissue forming the abscess.
If the pus were to be removed improperly or be released through constant muscle contractions, the resulting wound or crater is called a fistula. Unlike the fissure, a fistula runs deep and is characterized by a gaping hole where the abscess once formed. Like the fissure, however, a fistula can cause complications on the anal passage which include bleeding, acute to severe pain and discomfort during bowel movements. The constant exposure to bacteria would also result in the formation of another abscess.
Treatment
Advanced cases of fissures and fistulas would require surgical intervention which comes in the form of draining whatever matter was lodged in the openings to prevent infections and irritations. After a short outpatient operation, the doctor might prescribe a number of drugs to help the person close the wound within a few weeks. A change in diet and hygiene would also be necessary to prevent the formation of another fissure and abscess.
Are constipation, anal fistula and diarrhea related to anal fissure? The short answer is that they are all connected to one another and will have a major impact on the health of the anal area. Proper hygiene, diet, exercises and nutrients will help this end of the digestive system free from wounds and infections for as long as possible.
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