Anal Fissure Treatment in Mumbai, India

An anal fissure is a tear in the delicate, moist tissue that lines the anus, the opening at the end of the digestive tract where stool is expelled. Common causes include constipation, straining, or passing hard or large stools during a bowel movement. Anal fissures often lead to pain and bleeding during bowel movements and may also cause spasms in the anal sphincter, the muscle around the anus.

While anal fissures are most common in infants, they can affect individuals of any age. Most cases improve with basic treatments. In some cases, medication or even surgery may be required.

Alternative Names of Anal Fissures

Anal fissures are also commonly referred to by alternative names such as rectal fissures or anal tears. Both terms describe the same condition, where a small tear or crack forms in the skin or mucous membrane lining the anus.

Types of Anal Fissures

1. Acute Anal Fissure

These fissures last less than six weeks and tend to heal quickly with basic treatment.

2. Chronic Anal Fissure

Fissures that persist beyond six weeks, often needing more advanced care.

Anal Fissure Symptoms

• Intense pain during bowel movements
  
  
• Burning or itching while passing stool
  
  
• Bright red blood in stool
  
  
• Muscle spasms around the anus
  
  
• A small lump on the skin near the fissure
  
  

Anal Fissure Causes

• Chronic constipation
  
  
• Obstructed defecation syndrome
  
  
• Infant dyschezia
  
  
• Chronic diarrhoea
  
  
• Childbirth
  
  
• Penetrative activities
  
  
• Past surgeries
  
  
• Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
  
  
• Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
  
  
• Anal cancer
  
  
• Tuberculosis (TB)
  
  
• Diaper rash
  
  

Stages of Fissure Healing

Stage 1: Acute Fissure

Fresh tear with inflammation and severe pain.

Stage 2: Scab Formation

Initial healing, reduced inflammation, less discomfort.

Stage 3: Granulation Tissue Formation

New healthy tissue begins to form.

Stage 4: Epithelialization

New skin develops and discomfort decreases significantly.

Diagnosis of Anal Fissure

• Medical history and physical exam
  
  
• Visual inspection of the anus
  
  
• Diagnostic tests:
  
  
  • Anoscopy
    
    
  • Flexible sigmoidoscopy
    
    
  • Colonoscopy (for individuals with risk factors)
    
    

Anal Fissure Treatment Options

Anal fissures often heal within weeks with basic home care. However, if symptoms persist, further treatment is required.

1. Nonsurgical Anal Fissure Treatment

• Nitroglycerin ointment (Rectiv)
  
  
• Lidocaine cream (Xylocaine)
  
  
• Botox injections
  
  
• Blood pressure medications (nifedipine or diltiazem)
  
  

2. Surgical Anal Fissure Treatment

• Lateral Internal Sphincterotomy (LIS): A minor procedure that reduces sphincter pressure to aid healing.
  
  

Prevention of Anal Fissure

• Eat high-fibre foods
  
  
• Stay hydrated
  
  
• Exercise regularly
  
  
• Don’t delay bowel movements
  
  
• Avoid straining
  
  
• Manage underlying conditions
  
  
• Use stool softeners if needed
  
  
• Avoid scented soaps and irritants
  
  

Risk Factors for Anal Fissure

• Constipation and straining
  
  
• Childbirth
  
  
• Crohn’s disease
  
  
• Anal intercourse
  
  
• Age (infants and middle-aged adults at higher risk)
  
  

Complications of Anal Fissure

• Chronic fissure development
  
  
• Recurrence
  
  
• Tear extending to internal anal muscles
  
  
• Need for advanced treatment or surgery
  
  

Why Choose Nanavati Max Hospital for Anal Fissure Treatment?

Nanavati Max Hospital offers expert care by colorectal specialists and gastroenterologists with advanced diagnostics and personalised treatment plans. Post-treatment follow-up and support make the hospital a top choice for anal fissure treatment.

Outlook

With proper care, most fissures heal effectively. Conservative treatments are often successful, while more severe cases benefit from medical or surgical procedures. Advances in minimally invasive surgery have further improved outcomes.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are The Common Symptoms of an Anal Fissure?

Pain during bowel movements, bleeding, itching, and visible tears.

2. Which Doctor Treats Anal Fissures?

A proctologist or gastroenterologist.

3. What Tests are Done for Diagnosis?

Physical exam, anoscopy, or sigmoidoscopy.

4. What Does Fissure Pain Feel Like?

Sharp, burning, or intense pain during or after defecation.

5. How Do You Manage Bowel Movements Post-Surgery?

High-fibre diet, hydration, and stool softeners.

6. Can Anal Fissures Heal on Their Own?

Yes, many resolve with proper care.

7. Is Surgery Always Necessary?

No, only for chronic or severe fissures.

8. How to Prevent Anal Fissures?

Stay hydrated, eat fibre, avoid straining, and follow healthy bathroom habits.

Related Blogs

• What is the Difference Between Piles, Fissures and Fistula?
• Everything You Need to Know About Hemorrhoids
• Gastrointestinal Diseases: What is It & Symptoms of Gastrointestinal Disorders?
• Common Digestive Disorders That Can Affect Anyone
• Types of Doctors
• Balanced Diet Chart