Rectal Fissure - Prevent Anal Fissure

image of anal fissure

An anal fissure is an unnatural crack or tear in the anus, usually extending from the anal opening and located posteriorly in the midline. This location is probably because of the relatively unsupported nature of the rectal wall in that location.

Symptoms of Rectal Fissures

Pain during, and even hours after defecation

Visible tear in the anus

Blood on the stool or on toilet paper or toilet bowl

Constipation

Burning, possibly painful itching

Natural Remedies for Anal Fissures

The anal opening was never meant to accommodate large, hard stools. A diet lacking in fiber is usually the culprit of these hard stools that tear the anal canal, which result in anal fissures and hemorrhoids. Start yourself on a high fiber diet, and drink plenty of water which will result in softer bowel movements. Once your stool is soft, your anal fissures should begin to heal on their own.

Try lubricating the anal canal with petroleum jelly. A little petroleum jelly inserted about 1/2 inch into the rectum may help the stool pass without causing any further damage.

Anal fissures may be itchy as well as painful, but itching can actually make it worse. Do not itch!

Soaking in a hot tub or taking a soak in a bathtub with hot water in it helps relax the muscles of the anal sphincter and reduce much of the discomfort.

After each shower or bowel movement, brush yourself with baby powder. This helps keep the area dry.

When to call a doctor for anal fissure

In most cases anal fissures do not need medical attention unless they persist. The real problem to look out for with fissures is not to ignore them thinking they will go away. Anal fissures that do not heal are ulcers, and an ulcer that does not heal could be an early sign of cancer.

If you have a fissure that does not heal in one to two months, get them checked by checked out by your doctor. Remember, a sore that does not heal is a classic warning sign of cancer.

If you are also noticing a mucous discharge from your anus, have it checked out by your doctor also. Anal fissures can be harmless, but if left alone for a long period of time they can be life threatening.







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