Anal fissure (patient information)

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What is an Anal fissure?

An anal fissure is a small split or tear in the thin moist tissue (mucosa) lining the lower rectum (anus).

What are the symptoms of an Anal fissure?

Anal fissures may cause painful bowel movements and bleeding. There may be blood on the outside of the stool or on the toilet tissue (or baby wipes) following a bowel movement.

Other symptoms may include:

• A crack in the skin that can be seen when the area is stretched slightly (the fissure is almost always in the middle)
• Constipation

When to seek urgent medical care

Call your health care provider if symptoms associated with anal fissure are present, or if the fissure does not heal appropriately with treatment.

Where to find medical care for an Anal fissure

Directions to Hospitals Treating an Anal fissure

Prevention of an Anal fissure

To prevent anal fissures in infants, be sure to change diapers frequently.

To prevent fissures at any age:

• Keep the anal area dry
• Wipe with soft materials or a moistened cloth or cotton pad
• Promptly treat any constipation or diarrhea
• Avoid irritating the rectum

What to expect (Outlook/Prognosis)

Anal fissures generally heal quickly without further problems. However, people who develop fissures are more likely to have them in the future.

Possible Complications

Occasionally, a fissure becomes chronic and will not heal. Chronic fissures may require minor surgery to relax the sphincter.