What causes an anal fissure?
An anal fissure is a very small oval-shaped tear in the tissue that lines your anus. Your risk of developing an anal fissure can increase due to:
- Explosive diarrhea
- Chronic constipation
- Crohn’s disease
- Anal intercourse
- Childbirth
While less common, sometimes anal fissures are associated with anal cancer, tuberculosis, or syphilis, among other conditions.
How does a doctor diagnose an anal fissure?
ColoProctology Associates & nasaHernia specializes in comprehensive diagnostic testing to get to the root of your symptoms. Dr. Aquino also needs to know about all of the symptoms you’re experiencing. Anal fissures are known for causing severe pain during bowel movements, bleeding, and anal sphincter spasms. You may even be able to see the small tear or crack if you use a mirror to look at your anus.
To diagnose an anal fissure and rule out similar conditions, like hemorrhoids, Dr. Aquino will:
- Go over your symptoms in detail
- Evaluate your personal and family medical history
- Recommend and schedule a colonoscopy
- Examine your anal region [usually with an anesthetic cream applied a few minutes before]
What is the treatment for an anal fissure?
A minor anal fissure should heal on its own within a few weeks. Any anal fissure that stays open for more than eight weeks is chronic and warrants medical treatment. Depending on the severity of your anal fissure and any related symptoms, Dr. Aquino may recommend:
- Applying prescription-strength ointments
- Increasing your fiber intake
- Taking stool softeners
- Drinking more water
- Taking sitz baths (sitting in a bath of hot water for about 15-20 minutes)
In most cases, anal fissures don’t require surgery. In selected cases, an injection of Botox will result in a cure. If your anal fissure doesn’t respond to conservative treatments, Dr. Aquino may recommend a lateral internal sphincterotomy. This procedure involves loosening a small part of your anal sphincter muscle to promote healing and relieve symptoms.
No matter which treatment is right for you, ColoProctology Associates & nasaHernia provides comprehensive care. You can expect relief from anal fissure symptoms and counseling to learn lifestyle changes you can make to prevent them in the future.
Book your anal fissure evaluation at ColoProctology Associates & nasaHernia directly through the website today. You can also call the office to schedule an appointment.
