Anal fissure
| Anal fissure | |
| ICD-10 | K60.0-K60.2 |
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| ICD-9 | 565.0 |
| DiseasesDB | 673 |
| MedlinePlus | 001130 |
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Anal fissure Microchapters |
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Diagnosis |
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Treatment |
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Case Studies |
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Anal fissure On the Web |
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American Roentgen Ray Society Images of Anal fissure |
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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [2]
Overview
An anal fissure is an unnatural crack or tear in the anus skin. As a fissure, these tiny tears may show as bright red rectal bleeding and cause severe periodic pain after defecation.[1] The tear usually extends from the anal opening and located posteriorly in the midline. This location is probably because of the relatively unsupported nature of the anal wall in that location.
Prevention
In infants under one year old, frequent diaper change can prevent anal fissure. For adults, the following can help prevent fissure:
- Treating constipation by eating food rich in dietary fiber, avoiding caffeine (which can increase constipation),[2] drinking a lot of water and taking stool softener.
- Treating diarrhea promptly.
- Lubricating the anal canal with KY Jelly or other water-based lubrication before inserting anything (ex: vibrator, penis) into your anal canal.(petroleum jelly is not recommended because it can harbor harmful bacteria).
- Avoiding straining or prolonged sitting on the toilet.
- Using a moist wipe instead of perfumed and harsh toilet paper.
- Keeping the anus dry and hygienic.
- When using Analpram (cream) do not use the dispenser which can injure the area. Instead use a finger to insert a pea size amount of cream.
- Carmex lip ointment (the version without sunscreen-protection chemicals) also helps and is much less expensive than Analpram ($70.00 small tube).
Treatment
References
- ↑ Gott M.D., Peter H. (March 5, 1998) The Fresno Bee New thearpy coming for anal fissures. Section:Life; Page E2
- ↑ Basson, Marc D. , "Constipation" emedicine [1]