What is an anal fissure?
An anal fissure is a small tear in the thin, moist tissue (mucosa) that lines the anus.
An anal fissure may occur when you pass hard or large stools during a bowel movement.
Anal fissures typically cause pain and bleeding with bowel movements. You also may experience spasms in the ring of muscle at the end of your anus (anal sphincter).
Most anal fissures get better with simple treatments, such as increased fiber intake or sitz baths.
Some people with anal fissures may need medication or, occasionally, surgery.
Symptoms
Signs and symptoms of an anal fissure include:
- Pain, sometimes severe, during bowel movements
- Pain after bowel movements that can last up to several hours
- Bright red blood on the stool or toilet paper after a bowel movement
- A visible crack in the skin around the anus
- A small lump or skin tag on the skin near the anal fissure
When to see a doctor
See your doctor if you have pain during bowel movements or notice blood on stools or toilet paper after a bowel movement.
Causes
Common causes of anal fissure include:
- Passing large or hard stools
- Constipation and straining during bowel movements
- Chronic diarrhea
- Anal intercourse
- Childbirth
Less common causes of anal fissures include:
- Crohn's disease or another inflammatory bowel disease
- Anal cancer
- HIV
- Tuberculosis
- Syphilis
Anal fissures can develop at any age, but are most common in infants and middle-aged people.
Prevention
You may be able to prevent an anal fissure by taking measures to prevent constipation or diarrhea.
Eat high-fiber foods, drink fluids and exercise regularly to keep from having to strain during bowel movements.
Source
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/anal-fissure/symptoms-causes/syc-20351424
