Anal Fissure
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Midwest Hemorrhoid Treatment Center
Betsy F. Clemens, M.D.
Board Certified Physician located in Town and Country, MO
While the term anal fissure sounds severe, this injury is quite common, particularly those with chronic bowel diseases. Though these small tears are mostly benign, the pain and irritation they cause can interfere with everyday activities and overall comfort. At Midwest Hemorrhoid Treatment Center in Creve Coeur, Missouri, Betsy Clemens, MD, and her team offer a thorough examination of fissures along with fast and effective treatment for relief. To learn more about finding relief from your fissures, call or send a message to schedule your consultation.
Anal Fissure Q & A
What is an anal fissure?
An anal fissure is a small tear in the lining of your anus. They are common but, can cause significant discomfort.
What causes an anal fissure?
The most common cause of anal fissures is passing particularly large or hard stools. The strain and pressure of passing such stools can damage the lining of your anus, leading to a fissure.
Other conditions that can irritate and damage the lining of your anus include anal intercourse, chronic diarrhea, and pregnancy. Though rare, more serious medical conditions can occasionally cause anal fissures, such as syphilis, Crohn’s disease, anal cancer, and HIV.
What are the symptoms of an anal fissure?
The most telling sign of an anal fissure is pain while passing stool. This pain can be quite severe and can last for several hours after you go to the bathroom. In some cases, you might even notice bright red blood in the toilet or on the toilet paper following a bowel movement. Pain with bowel movement is a common symptom of several anorectal problem, so it is important to be evaluated by a doctor for an accurate diagnosis.
Anal fissures also often have visible signs, such as a crack around the opening of the anus or a small lump. Unfortunately, it can be difficult to observe these symptoms yourself.
Fissures that fail to heal on their own within eight weeks or are chronic in nature likely require medical intervention.
How are anal fissures treated?
Chronic anal fissures often require more aggressive treatment for success. If your anal fissure requires surgical intervention, Dr. Clemens can recommend several excellent surgical providers to assist in your care.
If you’re experiencing pain from a chronic fissure, let Dr. Clemens provide an expert evaluation and plan for treatment. Call or message Midwest Hemorrhoid Treatment Center to schedule your consultation.
