Anal Fissures Treatment
What are anal fissures?
An anal fissure is a tear in the anus or anal canal’s lining (mucosa) that causes pain during or after a bowel movement. The tear was most likely caused by a hard bowel movement or passing large stools.
Anal fissures can be incredibly painful, and individuals may suffer from bleeding and spasms while having them.
At first, anal fissures are shallow cuts, but once damaged, those fissures can quickly become more more established, especially if there is further strain on the area. As they age or become chronic (more than eight weeks old), they develop into deeper wounds. Internal or external fleshy growths may also develop around the area. You may feel a burning or tearing sensation when going to the toilet. This feeling is highly uncomfortable. Anal fissures often cause bleeding when you go to the toilet, which can be distressing and embarrassing.
Although anal fissures are painful, they are not life-threatening.
The precise location of the fissure can tell the doctor a lot about the cause. Fissures that emerge from the side of the anal opening rather than the front or rear could be an indication of Crohn’s disease. However, it could be something else. An expert in anal fissures will be able to properly diagnose the issues, as well as ruling out other disorders.
If you have dry constipation or are constantly straining to go, engage in anal intercourse, or force foreign objects into your anus, you may be at high risk for anus/anal fissures. Constipation is the most common cause, which is why doctors recommend good hydration and high fibre diet.
Symptoms of anal fissures
If you have an anal fissure, you may feel uncomfortable for several hours after a bowel movement. You may notice blood on the toilet paper or bright red blood on the stool. You may find a tear, lump, or skin tag near the anus or anal fissure.
Anal fissures or haemorrhoids?
Anal fissures and haemorrhoids can both cause pain, itching, and bleeding. If you are in pain but don’t feel an external lump, the condition is more likely to be a fissure. However, only examination by an appropriately trained doctor or surgeon can provide an accurate diagnosis. Some patients may have a combination of anal fissures with haemorrhoids, sometimes with anal skin tags too, as these can develop after haemorrhoids or fissures where the skin overgrows. Our colorectal surgeon can provide a comprehensive treatment, whatever your needs.
Diagnosing anal fissures
When you visit Cosmedics, your doctor will examine you thoroughly, and especially the anal area. Although the tear is usually quite apparent, the doctor will will also inspect the anus and the interior of the rectum for evidence of any older fissures or other issues. Where required, we may recommend a proctoscopy examination.
Anal Fissure Treatment
We offer a range of non-surgical treatment options for anal fissures:
- We are able to prescribe a cream called Diltiazem which can help to relax the sphincter muscles while the wound heals. This is normally applied two times a day for up to 6 weeks. Diltiazem will help to settle mild to moderate anal fissures.
- In more severe cases, we can also administer Botox injections into the area. This is completely pain-free. This safe and harmless procedure can have up to 80% cure rate.
Both the above are swift and simple procedures that are carried out while you’re awake.
Treatment Benefits
Time
Recovery
Results
Duration
Anal Fissure Treatment Reviews
Anal Fissures Treatment Costs
| Treatment | Cost |
|---|---|
| Consultation with Consultant Colorectal Surgeon | £295 |
| Anal fissures | From £750 |
Your Anal Fissure Consultation
Consultations are with our team of leading consultant colorectal surgeons in our Harley Street and City of London clinics.
During the consultation you will have a detailed consultation about your concerns and an assessment of the condition. Consultations are valid for 3 months, after which another consultation may be required to check for any change in symptoms prior to treatment.
Prices are a guide to the costs and the exact price can only be determined once the surgeon has examined you in person. Call 0207 386 0464 OR email [email protected] for advice and help.
FAQ's
Anal Fissures Treatment FAQ: Questions & Answers
You may make several lifestyle changes so you can get some relief and heal.
- Choose fibre-rich foods and drink plenty of fluids to keep stools soft
- Try to relax while having a bowel movement.
- Sit in a warm bath for 10-20 minutes a few times each day for healing and comfort
- Rest is important
- Avoid vigorous activity or anything that could strain the anus
- It is not uncommon to itch – try not to scratch the area as this could open up wounds
These changes will also help to prevent fissures from coming back.
Anal fissures can be very painful, so if they are not going quickly after adopting a healthy diet and good hydration, it’s time to consider getting some help.
You are at risk of infection if you have pain, heavy bleeding, or discomfort.
You will be given full advice in your appointment, before deciding whether to go ahead. Aftercare is not complicated:
- Ensure you get plenty of rest
- Take a warm bath 2-3 times a day
- Bathe after a bowel movement
- Maintain a high fibre diet with good hydration
- Avoid strenuous activity or anything that might strain the anus
