Anal fissures are tears or open sores in the anal canal lining. The symptoms include a burning sensation at the end of back passage when passing stool. Red blood spots can appear on the toilet paper or seat. These symptoms indicate presence of this ulcer or tear. It is important to contact a specialist anal fissure London surgeon when these symptoms start appearing.
Two Types of Anal Fissures
The first type of fissures is due to the primary reasons which are not known. Medical experts generally attribute primary anal fissure to the problem of constipation. When hard stool becomes a frequent problem, it can damage the internal lining of the anal canal. Another type of fissures occurs due to secondary reasons like pregnancy, sexually transmitted infection, anal cancer and inflammatory bowel disease.
Examination and Treatment
The doctor will ask you about the symptoms, your toilet habit and the type of pain you are experiencing. If you have been experiencing extreme pain at the edge of anus while passing stool, it may be due to the fissure. A physical examination by a doctor is needed to confirm a diagnosis. It requires parting the buttocks slightly and examining the anus. The doctor is able to see the fissure during this physical examination.
Fissure Treatment
A minor anal fissure can heal on its own within a few weeks. Even then, some medication may be needed to reduce the pain and speed up healing. The doctor may give you stool softening laxatives and other medicines. The medicine list may include a topical one that is applied to the affected part. It reduces the sharp pain while passing stool. A painkiller is prescribed if the burning pain has prolonged. Calcium channel blockers, GTN or Glyceryl Trinitrate and other medicinal solutions may be recommended. In extreme cases, surgery becomes necessary to solve the problem. Different surgical techniques are used to treat this condition. These options include internal sphincterotomy and fissurectomy.
Anal fissure cannot be prevented in all cases but there are some ways to prevent it. The best solution is to avoid constipation. Eat the recommended amount of fiber and drink sufficient water daily. The toilet urge should not be held for long. Daily physical activities with some exercises are recommended to remain fit and healthy. A fissure not treated in time becomes chronic so it should be treated as early as possible to prevent its further spread. An anal fissure London clinic provides solutions from expert surgeons specializing in this medical issue.
