What is a chronic anal fissure?
A chronic anal fissure is a tear in the thin lining of the anus, the opening at the end of the digestive tract through which stool passes. This tear causes severe pain.
The patient may also experience spasms in the circular muscle at the end of the anus, known as the sphincter muscle, which is responsible for bowel movements. Anal fissures can affect people of all ages, from infancy to adulthood. A chronic anal fissure should be treated completely to avoid complications.
Why does an anal fissure become chronic?
An acute anal fissure becomes chronic if it lasts longer than three weeks. This is due to the failure of the acute fissure to heal and is often associated with a small protrusion of tissue from the anus. A chronic anal fissure can lead to the formation of a protrusion that becomes attached to the anus. In some cases, a chronic anal fissure may require surgical intervention. Depending on the cost of laser anal fissure surgery, you may be considering a permanent surgical solution.
What are the symptoms of a chronic anal fissure?
Bleeding after bowel movements.
Pain and discomfort while sitting. Symptoms include:
A tendency to delay bowel movements due to fear of pain.
Anal spasms.
Burning and itching around the anus.
Yellow discharge.
Persistent pain after defecation.
Small skin tags near the fissure.
Visible tearing of the skin around the anus.
Is blood in the stool a sign of an anal fissure?
Yes, in many cases of anal fissures, there is clear red blood after defecation. However, it can also indicate other conditions such as hemorrhoids, where the blood is bright red.
In other cases, the blood may be mixed with the stool, such as in cases of infections, polyps, or problems within the colon. Black blood in the stool indicates bleeding in the upper digestive tract.
Can a chronic anal fissure be treated without surgery?
An inflamed anal fissure can often be treated without surgery, especially in mild cases. Some medications, such as analgesic ointments, can help relieve pain and relax the anal sphincter muscle. Lidocaine ointment is an example.
What is the best treatment for a chronic anal fissure permanently?
Medication
Medications are used to treat anal fissures in some cases, including:
Laxatives, which soften stool and facilitate bowel movements.
Botox injections, which paralyze the anal sphincter muscle and relieve spasms.
Blood pressure medications that help relax the anal sphincter muscle.
Herbal Treatment
In some cases, an anal fissure can be treated using honey, known for its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, or a mixture of essential oils and gum arabic, petroleum jelly, fenugreek, or other ingredients.
Surgical Intervention
Surgical intervention is considered the best and most permanent treatment for chronic anal fissures. It involves cutting a small portion of the anal sphincter muscle. This helps reduce pain and spasms and is more effective than medical treatment. Thus, we have learned about the treatment for chronic anal fissures.
When is surgical intervention necessary?
Surgical treatment for chronic anal fissures is necessary in cases where:
The fissure and pain persist for more than six weeks.
Medications are ineffective in treating the symptoms of an anal fissure.
The patient suffers from severe, unbearable pain.
An acute fissure has progressed to a chronic one.
There are cases of recurrent bleeding that do not improve with treatment.
There are skin tags present near the fissure.
Recovery Time After Chronic Fissure Treatment
After a chronic fissure is completely treated surgically, pain can persist for several weeks in traditional surgical cases. Pain can be managed with painkillers. However, when treating bleeding from the fissure painlessly using laser therapy, recovery can occur in a short period, ranging from a few days to two weeks, depending on the patient's condition. This is contingent upon taking the prescribed medications regularly and following a healthy, fiber-rich diet.
Can an anal fissure recur after treatment?
Chronic constipation.
Non-adherence to prescribed medications.
An unhealthy diet that causes constipation.
Non-compliance with the doctor's advice.
How to Choose the Best Doctor for Chronic Fissure Treatment?
Choose a doctor with extensive experience in rectal and anal surgeries.
The ability to develop a suitable treatment plan for each individual case.
Utilizing the best and most advanced technological tools and techniques to accelerate recovery.
Adherence to the highest standards of safety and hygiene within the clinic.
Provision of comprehensive pre- and post-operative care.
Inquire about the doctor's reputation, professionalism, and patient trust.
All these criteria are met at the French Specialized Medical Center, an initiative of Dr. Firas Al-Rifai. He is distinguished by his extensive experience in rectal and anal surgeries, having successfully treated numerous cases. He provides comprehensive medical and psychological support to patients until full recovery.
What is the best ointment for treating a chronic anal fissure?
Nitroglycerin ointment can be applied to the affected area as it helps increase blood flow. Some topical pain-relieving ointments, such as lidocaine ointment, can also be used.
Does an anal fissure cause back pain?
Yes, in some cases, an anal fissure can cause lower back pain, which may also extend to the upper thighs and buttocks, especially in severe cases.
How can I live with a chronic anal fissure?
You can manage chronic anal fissures by consuming a high-fiber diet and drinking plenty of water, which helps soften stools. Sitting in a warm seat for 10 minutes can also be beneficial.
Can an anal fissure develop into a fistula?
It is rare for an anal fissure to develop into a fistula, but an anal fissure may lead to some other complications, and surgical intervention to treat an anal fissure may increase the likelihood of fistula formation.