How to Cure Fissure Permanently

Anal fissures are painful cracks or splits that develop at the junction where the anal canal meets the end of the colon, often due to passing stool. A few symptoms are commonly associated with bowel movements, such as itching, bleeding, and pain. In some cases, small fissures that cause pain can heal on their own; however, if there are deeper fissures that are chronic, a physician may need to treat them.

An anal fissure is very common among infants and children but can affect people of any age. In general, anal fission heals within four to six weeks. However, if the rift fails to heal during this period, it may become chronic, and medical or surgical treatment will be necessary to cure the anal rift.

Symptoms

Anal Fissure occurs when the anal canal is damaged in some way. The trauma to the anal lining can lead to symptoms such as

• Discomfort
• Itching
• Pain with bowel movements
• Bleeding

Causes

Some trauma in the anal channel causes it. These rectal tears can occur in anyone, but they are more commonly observed in younger and otherwise healthy individuals. Anal stenosis is generally caused by pressure on the anal cavity; the reasons could be sitting for a long time, being stressed, or having a high-pressure job. Primary fissures are simple fractures.

A fissure can result from severe constipation or increased pressure on the anal muscles, often due to prolonged activities like long hours of driving. They may occur during childbirth or after a difficult childbirth. Earlier, it was thought that most fissures were caused by straining to pass stools and uncomfortable bowel movements. However, it is now understood that increased tension in the sphincter muscle can lead to the development of chronic fissures. Excessive pressure on the anal hole may cause these, and it may become a more painful and stressful life, and spasms and breakdowns may become chronic.

Some conditions that are commonly associated with primary anal fissures include

• Chronic Constipation
• Hypothyroidism
• Obesity
• Tumors

Additionally, some of the minor common causes of the same phenomenon are as follows:

• Anal cancer
• Crohn’s disease and inflammatory bowel disease, such as Ulcerative Colitis
• HIV/AIDS
• Tuberculosis

Home Remedies for Anal Fissure

1. Sitz Bath

It involves sitting in a tub of lukewarm water to ease pain and provide relief, although it may not necessarily speed up the healing of an anal fissure. These plastic baths can be purchased from local drug stores on any available online platforms, are filled with water, and are usually recommended for use for approximately 10 to 15 minutes, preferably 2-3 times a day. Doctors prescribe some medications or Epsom salt in addition to water. These additives help reduce pain and itch, remove discomfort, and clear the infection.

If a plastic sitz bath isn’t available, you can use your regular bathtub as an alternative. If you soak in a bathtub, be sure to clean it well before sitting in it, and keep to the recommended soaking time.

2. Include Fibre-Rich Food

Eat a diet rich in fiber by including foods like chickpeas, lentils, beans, split peas, whole grains, soybeans, pumpkin seeds, and bran cereal. Also, eat prunes and raisins that help soften stools. Soft, easy-to-pass stools help reduce pain and prevent the fissure from worsening or becoming further irritated.

Some Examples of High Fiber Foods Include

• High-fiber bran cereal
• Beans (kidney, yellow, white)
• Split peas
• Chickpeas
• Lentils
• Pumpkin seeds
• Soybeans
• Avocado

3. Fibre Supplement

If you don’t get enough fiber from food, a fiber supplement may help. There are many different types of fiber supplements, with some of the most common ingredients being psyllium husk, methylcellulose, and polycarbophil. Consult a nutritionist and take a balanced diet with a fiber supplement to benefit from the supplement. It’s recommended to begin fiber supplements with a low dose and gradually increase the intake each day to minimize side effects like gas and bloating. In addition, fiber supplements can help with other health complications, such as constipation and diarrhea.

4. Stool Softener

A stool softener may help to relieve constipation. Stool softeners are not laxatives, and they are usually considered safe. Though they may have negligible side effects, it is still important to speak with a doctor before using them. These agents help increase the amount of water drawn into the digestive tract or intestines, making the stool softer. There are many types of stool softeners available as tablets and liquids. Stool softeners are typically used for seven days. Other methods that can be followed to help with constipation to help discontinue the stool softeners include changing your lifestyle habits. You should also speak with your doctor or healthcare provider to determine which over-the-counter stool softener is right for you.

5. Stay Hydrated

Maintaining proper hydration helps ease constipation by softening the stool and promoting smoother bowel movements. Water-rich foods can also support your daily hydration needs. The amount of water you need each day depends on your weight and gender and varies from person to person, but on average, men should drink about 13 cups and women about 9 cups. More water is needed after physical activity, especially after exercise or when pregnant or breastfeeding. Your body is the only one that can tell you how much water you need. If your stool is soft and passes easily, it’s a good sign that you’re staying adequately hydrated throughout the day.

6. Follow the Bathroom Hygiene

After each bowel movement, clean the area around the anus gently and dry it thoroughly. If you have the urge to pass stools, don’t ignore it. If you try to control your urge to defecate, it will worsen the fissure. Steer clear of soap and bubble baths, as they may aggravate the sensitive tissue in the anal canal. Avoid excessive pressure or sitting on the toilet for a long time if it puts extra pressure on the anal area.

When to Visit a Doctor

While mild anal fissures often heal with home remedies, some cases require medical attention. You should see a doctor if you experience persistent pain, bleeding, or discomfort during bowel movements that do not improve with self-care. Additionally, if symptoms worsen or fail to heal within six to eight weeks, it may indicate a chronic fissure that needs medical intervention.

Individuals with recurring fissures or underlying conditions like Crohn’s disease should also seek professional advice to prevent complications. A gastroenterologist or colorectal surgeon can examine your condition and offer the right treatment options, which may include medication, lifestyle adjustments, or minor surgery if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions