An anal fissure is a very, very small lesion – less than one centimeter – along the anus. Although it is very small, it can cause excruciating pain because the anus is a very sensitive body part. The pain felt in that area is worse than anyone would expect from a very minute tissue tear.
There are various causes of anal fissure. Most women experience it during pregnancy and after childbirth. The thin lining along the anus becomes torn as the child passes through. Muscle spasms in the anal sphincter may also cause fissures and weaken the natural healing process. Sexually-transmitted diseases or infections such as syphilis, herpes, Chlamydia and HPV, may also be factors. Anal sex may also result in abrasions in the anal area.
One of the more common causes of fissures is the passing of large stools that are hard. Constipation may result in lesions in the anus during and after bowel movements. If there are existing anal fissures, passing hard stools may cause bleeding. It is necessary to avoid hard bowel movements so that the anus will not be pressured. An already healing fissure may break open if a stool is hard or too large.
When you have anal fissure, you have pain, blood, itching, dysuria and pus. The pain when you pass stools can be sharp and have a burning sensation. Usually, fear of this pain causes people to delay bowel movements thereby worsening constipation making the stools larger and harder. Fresh blood, as seen in stools or on toilet paper, can be an alarming sight. A persistent itching sensation in the anus or anal area can not only be irritating but agonizing. Other people suffer from pus or a bad smell as a result from fissures. Constipation makes these symptoms worse.
In order to address constipation, the following measures must be taken:
1. Fiber therapy – Increase the fiber in your diet and supplements so that you can soften your stool. Eat a lot of fruits and vegetables. Supplements such as psyllium seed, calcium polycarbophil and wheat dextran are available commercially. Take note that the recommended fiber is 20 – 35 grams per day. When the stool is softened and bulked, you will have more frequent bowel movements that are safer.
2. Bulk-forming laxatives – Laxatives are used to treat constipation. They may be taken by themselves or included in diet changes. While they may cause bloating and gas in the beginning, they are quite safe to use in the long-term. Contrary to popular opinion, laxatives are not addictive or habit-forming. They are the best solutions for long-term constipation problems.
3. Increased fluid and exercise. You can increase and improve your blood circulation as you exercise regularly. Going for at least 30 minutes a day will be beneficial to your body. Good blood flow will promote healing in injured areas, particularly anal fissure.
When the stool is bulked and softened, they can be passed easily. This way, people who have fissures will not be afraid of bowel movement. It is wise to avoid constipation so that the natural course of healing will take place.
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