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An anal fissure is a painful cut in the lining of the anus. The anus is the opening through which stool passes from the body. Tears generally occur just inside the opening.
 Alternate Names : Anal Ulcer, Anal Fissure
Causes
A large, dry, or hard stool can tear the lining of the anus. Frequent diarrhea or irritation of the anus and rectum may also lead to a tear.
Risk Factors
A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition.
- Constipation
- Straining to pass a bowel movement
- Prior anal surgery, which can cause scarring and decrease the tissue's elasticity
- Chronic diarrhea
Symptoms
Symptoms of an anal fissure are similar to symptoms of other more serious conditions. Therefore, you should see a doctor if you have these symptoms. Symptoms include:
- Pain during and after a bowel movement
- Burning sensation during a bowel movement
- Bleeding with bowel movements
- Bright red blood either on the toilet tissue or in the bowl
- Itching of the anus
- Small amount of mucus on the stool
Diagnosis
The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam. The anal area will also be examined, which involves the following:
- The doctor will hold the buttocks apart, which usually turns the anus outward enough for tears to become visible. Usually the doctor will be able to see the fissure.
- If fissures have persisted for three months or more, additional changes may be seen. These changes may include a sentinel tag or "pile," granulation tissue, or white discoloration from scar tissue around the fissure.
- If pain permits, the doctor may perform: Digital rectal exam - the doctor inserts a lubricated finger into the anus and feels for lumps or abnormalities. Anoscopy - a tool is inserted in the anus to allow the doctor to examine the anal canal.
Note: Patients often cannot tolerate these additional exams without anesthesia until after the fissure has healed. Fissures usually occur in predictable locations around the anus. If there are multiple cuts, or a cut in an unusual location, the doctor may order additional tests to look for other conditions.
Treatment
Treatment aims to heal the cut and prevent future anal problems. About half of all fissures heal on their own or with self-care. Fissures that are fairly new are easier to heal than ones that have persisted for longer than three months.
Treatments include:
Self Care
To promote healing:
- Eat more fiber; strive for 20-35 grams per day.
- Drink at least eight, 8-oz glasses of water daily.
- Take stool softeners or bulk laxatives as directed by your doctor.
- Exercise regularly.
- Apply a medicated cream or ointment as directed by your doctor.
- Soak the anal area in warm tap water for 10 to 20 minutes several times daily, especially after a bowel movement. This soaking is called a sitz bath. It helps to relieve pain and promote blood circulation.
Surgery
You may need surgery to repair the fissure if it does not heal by itself or if you have repeated fissures. Scar tissue or spasms in the sphincter muscle, which closes and opens the anus, may delay healing.
There are several surgical options. The most common surgery is called lateral internal sphincterotomy. During this procedure, the doctor will make a tiny incision and divide certain fibers of the internal sphincter muscle. Cutting the muscle can help healing by preventing the anal muscle spasms that lead to straining when passing a bowel movement.
Prevention
Most fissures are caused by hard, dry stool that is associated with constipation. To avoid becoming constipated:
- Drink at least eight, 8-oz glasses of water daily.
- Exercise every day.
- Eat foods high in fiber, such as fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains.
- Avoid straining during bowel movements.
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