0
An anal fissure is a small split or tear in the thin moist tissue (mucosa) lining the lower rectum (anus).
Causes, incidence, and risk factorsAnal fissures are extremely common in young infants but may occur at any age. Studies suggest 80% of infants will have had an anal fissure by the end of the first year. The rate of anal fissures decreases rapidly with age. Fissures are much less common among school-aged children than infants.
In adults, fissures may be caused by constipation, the passing of large, hard stools, or by prolonged diarrhea. In older adults, anal fissures may be caused by decreased blood flow to the area.
Anal fissures are also common in women after childbirth and persons with Crohn's disease.
SymptomsAnal fissures may cause painful bowel movements and bleeding. There may be blood on the outside of the stool or on the toilet tissue (or baby wipes) following a bowel movement.
Other symptoms may include:
- A crack in the skin that can be seen when the area is stretched slightly (the fissure is almost always in the middle)
- Constipation
The health care provider will perform a rectal exam and look at a sample of the rectal (anal) tissue.
TreatmentMost fissures heal on their own and do not require treatment, aside from good diaper hygiene in babies.
However, some fissures may require treatment. The following home care methods usually heal most anal fissures.
- Cleansing more gently
- Diet changes -- eating more bulk, substances that absorb water while in the intestinal tract
- Muscle relaxants applied to the skin
- Numbing cream, if pain interferes with normal bowel movement
- Petroleum jelly applied to the area
- Sitz bath
- Stool softeners
If the anal fissues do not go away with home care methods, treatment may involve:
- Botox injections into muscle in the anus (anal sphincter)
- Minor surgery to relax the anal muscle
Anal fissures generally heal quickly without further problems. However, people who develop fissures are more likely to have them in the future.
ComplicationsOccasionally, a fissure becomes chronic and will not heal. Chronic fissures may require minor surgery to relax the sphincter.
Calling your health care providerCall your health care provider if symptoms associated with anal fissure are present, or if the fissure does not heal appropriately with treatment.
PreventionTo prevent anal fissures in infants, be sure to change diapers frequently.
To prevent fissures at any age:
- Keep the anal area dry
- Wipe with soft materials or a moistened cloth or cotton pad
- Promptly treat any constipation or diarrhea
- Avoid irritating the rectum
Danakas G. Anal fissure. In: Ferri FF, ed. Ferri's Clinical Advisor 2008: Instant Diagnosis and Treatment. 1st ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Mosby; 2008.
What else can I help you with?
Do you have an anal fissure?
It will be painful in the anal area if you have a fissure (tear). It should be looked at by your doctor.
How do you cure a fissure?
Injection of botulinum toxin into the anal sphincter will cure up a fissure
What symptoms are caused by an anal fissure?
Symptoms caused by an anal fissure include pain while or after defecating, itching, discharge, constipation, pain while urinating, and frequent urination.
What is a small crack line sore in the skin of the anus?
A fissure is the medical term for a crack-like sore. A crack-like sore in the skin of the anus is an anal fissure.
What is the medical term meaning rectal tear?
anal fissure
What the most common anorectal problems in pediatric?
Anal fissure
What are the symptoms of an anal fissure?
An anal fissure is a tear in the anus. Painful bowel movements, constipation, and fecal impaction are all symptoms of anal fissures. One can also experience itching and bleeding in small amounts from the anus.
What is an anal fissure?
An anal fissure is a small tear in the lining of the anus, which can cause pain, bleeding, and discomfort during bowel movements. It is usually the result of passing hard or large stools, and can be treated with dietary changes, topical creams, and sometimes surgery.
What is a cracklike sore in the skin of the anus?
A cracklike sore in the skin of the anus is often due to a condition called an anal fissure. It can be caused by passing hard or large stools, diarrhea, or inflammation. Symptoms may include pain or bleeding during bowel movements. Treatment typically involves stool softeners, topical ointments, and lifestyle changes to promote healing.
What Code 565 in medical field mean?
ICD 9 code 565 refers to Anal fissure
How do you prevent anal fissure?
Most anal fissures are caused by straining to pass faeces. Keeping your body hydrated will ensure your stools are soft - which will make passing them easier.
Can an anal fissure cause a bowel screen test to show hidden blood?
Yes, an anal fissure can cause a bowel screen test to show hidden blood. The fissure may bleed during bowel movements, leading to small amounts of blood that can be detected in stool samples. However, it's important to note that hidden blood can also be a sign of other gastrointestinal conditions, so further evaluation may be necessary to determine the underlying cause. If you suspect you have an anal fissure or see blood in your stool, consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.
