Anal Fissure

Anal Fissure

An anal fissure is a small cut or tear in the lining of the anus. The crack in the skin causes severe pain and some bright red bleeding during and after bowel movements. At times, the fissure can be deep enough to expose the muscle tissue underneath. An anal fissure usually isn't a serious condition. It can affect people of all ages, and it's often seen in infants and young children since constipation is a common problem in these age groups.
In most cases, the tear heals on its own within four to six weeks. In cases where the fissure persists beyond eight weeks, it's considered chronic.
Certain treatments can promote healing and help relieve discomfort, including stool softeners and topical pain relievers. If an anal fissure doesn't improve with these treatments, you may need surgery. Or your doctor may need to look for other underlying disorders that can cause anal fissures.

What are the symptoms of an anal fissure?
An anal fissure may cause one or more of the following symptoms:
• a visible tear in the skin around your anus
• a skin tag, or small lump of skin, next to the tear
• sharp pain in the anal area during bowel movements
• streaks of blood on stools or on toilet paper after wiping
• burning or itching in the anal area