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An anal fissure is a small tear or crack in the lining of the anus or the anal canal. While it may sound minor, fissures can cause significant pain, especially during or after bowel movements. They may also lead to bleeding, burning, or discomfort that lingers for hours.
What Causes Anal Fissures?
Fissures can be caused by trauma to the area, often due to:
- Chronic constipation
- Straining during bowel movements
- Large, hard, or dry stools
- Persistent diarrhea
- Anal sex
- Insertion of large objects into the rectum
Other causes include:
- Tight or spastic anal sphincter muscles
- Poor bowel habits
- Low blood flow to the area
- Underlying conditions like Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, STIs, or infections
Anal fissures are also common in newborns and postpartum women.
Common Symptoms of Anal Fissures
If you’re wondering whether your symptoms may be caused by an anal fissure, look for these common warning signs:
- Pain during and after bowel movements
- Bright red blood on toilet paper or in the stool
- Visible tear or crack near the anus
- Burning, itching, or irritation
- Constipation or difficulty passing stool
- Foul-smelling discharge
- Frequent urination or discomfort while urinating
If you notice blood in your stool or severe pain that doesn’t go away, contact your doctor right away.
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How to Treat Anal Fissures
Conservative Treatments
Most anal fissures heal with non-surgical care. First-line treatments include:
- Stool softeners and increased water intake
- Sitz baths (10–20 minutes several times daily)
- Avoiding straining or sitting too long on the toilet
- Petroleum jelly to lubricate the area
- Gentle cleansing of the anorectal region
Medical Treatments
If symptoms persist after a few weeks, your doctor may recommend:
- Hydrocortisone creams or suppositories
- Anti-inflammatory or anesthetic ointments
- Topical nitroglycerin or calcium channel blockers
- Botox injections to relax the anal sphincter
These treatments reduce spasms, ease pain, and promote healing.
Surgical Options
For fissures that don’t respond to other treatments, surgery may be necessary. The most common procedure is a lateral internal sphincterotomy, where a small portion of the sphincter muscle is cut to relieve pressure and allow healing.
Your doctor may perform additional exams to rule out infection, scarring, or other causes before surgery is considered.
When to See a Doctor
You should schedule a medical evaluation if:
- Pain persists beyond a few weeks
- Bleeding continues or worsens
- Over-the-counter treatments don’t work
- There’s a foul discharge or infection symptoms
Get Relief from Anal Fissures at BASS Medical Group
Our experienced providers at BASS Medical Group can help you find relief from anal fissures with compassionate, discreet care. We offer both conservative and advanced treatment options based on your symptoms and medical history.
Find a Doctor: Browse Our Physicians
Request an Appointment: Fill Out the Contact Form
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