Anal fissure is a health problem that affects many people, and is particularly common among certain age groups and lifestyles. This is a condition that occurs in the skin of the anal canal, causing it to tear or break. Many people may feel ashamed or uncomfortable about the situation and choose to remain silent. However, awareness and understanding of anal fissure is crucial as it can lead to other health problems. This article will take an in-depth look at the symptoms, causes, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of anal fissures.
The most obvious symptoms of an anal fissure are severe pain during intestinal excretion and bright red bleeding. Sufferers may notice bright red blood on toilet paper, in their underwear, or even in the toilet. The pain usually worsens after defecation, but in chronic anal fissures, the intensity of the pain may decrease and become cyclical.
Symptoms of an acute anal fissure can include severe stinging and burning during bowel movements.
The main cause of anal fissure is excessive stretching of the anal mucosa. The most common triggers include constipation, passing large, hard stools, or persistent diarrhea. For some older people, reduced blood flow may also lead to the development of anal fissures. In addition, many other factors can cause anal fissures, such as postpartum trauma, anal intercourse, Crohn's disease, and ulcerative colitis.
Diagnosis of anal fissure is usually based on visual inspection, including checking for various signs around the anus during palpation. People with chronic anal fissures may have classic signs such as swelling caused by the signal veins, glands, and skin of the anal rim, as well as other combined symptoms.
Maintaining healthy bowel habits is vital to preventing anal fissures. Avoid straining to have a bowel movement and prevent constipation by eating enough fiber and water. For infants and young children, regular diaper changes and maintaining adequate fluid intake are also good preventive measures.
Initial treatment for acute and chronic anal fissures is usually non-surgical, including the use of topical ointments, seat baths, and a high-fiber diet. Topical medications such as nitroglycerin and calcium channel blockers have proven effective in many patients.
Surgery is an option for patients whose wounds have not healed after one to three months of medical treatment. Lateral internal sphincterotomy (LIS) is currently the gold standard for the treatment of anal fissure, with a success rate as high as 95%.
“Lateral internal sphincterotomy brings lasting results in the treatment of anal fissure, but postoperative complications still need to be noted.”
According to research, the incidence of anal fissure is about one in every 350 adults. The incidence is similar between both sexes, and it is more common in adults aged 15 to 40 years old.
Understanding and identifying the signs of anal fissure enables patients to respond promptly, which is critical to avoiding worsening of the condition. Are you prepared to care for your own health and the health of others in the face of this disturbing health issue?