ANAL FISSURE

What is an anal fissure?

An anal fissure is a small tear in the anus that may cause itching, pain, or bleeding.

It typically occurs after passing a particlularly hard stool (bowel motion).

Symptoms

- Pain on defaecation (painful bowel motion)
- Constipation
- Rectal bleeding (fresh blood on toilet paper)

Treatment

- Increase fibre intake (to soften the stools).

- Vaseline can give relief to the affected area.

- Analgesic suppositories may be required to ease pain.

Most anal fissures will heal on their own within a couple of weeks. However, in some cases, surgery may be required.