Anal Fissures

Anal fissures are small cuts or tears that occur in the lining of the anus. This tear can cause serious pain and even cause bleeding while passing the stools. Sometimes, the fissures become so deep that it can even show the muscles present underneath. When you notice the first signs of a fissure, it is important to get it treated in order to heal faster.

Although not a very complex condition, it can affect people of all age groups. Even seen in infants and young children, the main reason for this condition is constipation. Generally, it should heal within 4-6 weeks, and if it doesn’t, it is categorized as a chronic disorder.

What are the symptoms of an anal fissure ?

If you are suffering from anal fissures, you may experience, one or more of the following symptoms :

• You may notice a visible tear in the skin around the anus.
• You may notice a skin tag or a small lump beside the tear.
• You may experience sharp pain in your anus while passing stools.
• You may bleed while passing stools.
• You may experience a burning sensation or an itch in the anal area.

What are the causes of an anal fissure ?

One of the most common reasons why fissures occur is because of hard and large stools. Therefore, when you suffer from chronic constipation or chronic diarrhea, it can lead to a tear near the anus. Other causes are :

• When you go through a strain during your bowel movements.
• Too much pressure during bowel movements.
• Inflammatory bowel disease, like Crohn’s disease.
• When the blood flow to the anorectal area becomes less.
• Spastic or tight anal sphincter muscles.

In some very rare cases, fissures also occur when you are suffering from; anal cancer, HIV, tuberculosis, syphilis, and herpes.

What are the risk factors of an anal fissure ?

In babies or infants, fissures are very common. However, in older adults, when the blood flow to the anorectal area decreases, it can lead to fissures. Also, during the childbirth and after childbirth, women may experience this condition as too much strain is put on the anus.

People suffering from Irritable bowel disease are also at a risk of anal fissures. Tissue around the anus can tear due to the inflammation in the intestinal lining. Also, frequent constipation can cause fissures. Passing large and hard stools is even a reason for fissures.

What is the laser treatment for fissure ?

Today laser treatments help treat fissures. It is a non-surgical treatment, which is extremely beneficial than other traditional surgeries. It is a day care procedure, which can be even conducted within 30 minutes. After this treatment, the patient is discharged on the same day. The radical fiber is used to treat the fissures.With no side-effects and no pain, today, laser treatments are preferred by many.
The various benefits of this condition include :

• Very low pain
• You may be able to go to work immediately
• An easy procedure, hence, the patient remains confident
• Fecal incontinence or fecal leak is avoided
• Very less or no bleeding
• Very less time to complete the procedure
• Post-surgery care is too less
• The recovery time is faster

How can you prevent the condition from making a comeback ?

There is no sure way to prevent the condition, but with a few tips and tricks, you can reduce the risks. They include :

• Ensure area around anus is clean and dry.
• Always clean the anal part with lukewarm water.
• Always consume plenty of fluids, fresh fruits and veggies, lots of fiber, and exercise regularly in order to keep constipation away.
• Always treat diarrhea quickly.
• When it comes to infants, change the diapers sooner.