Anal Fissure in Utah
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Find a ProviderWhat is an anal fissure?
Anal fissure is the medical term for a tiny split or cut in the tissue that lines the anus. This delicate tissue (known as mucosa) could tear due to a number of reasons, a common one being the passage of large stools in a bowel movement. Anal fissures are generally associated with painful bowel movements and blood appearing in stool. An anal fissure could also be followed by contractions of the muscle at the end of the anus, referred to as the anal sphincter.
An anal fissure is classified as chronic if it has been present for 6 – 8 weeks or if it is a recurring concern. If you suspect you could be suffering from an anal fissure, get in touch with Utah Gastroenterology and book a meeting with a GI specialist. Our physicians commonly provide specialized treatment for anal fissures in Utah.
What are the causes of an anal fissure?
There are many common factors that could lead to the development of an anal fissure. Causes could encompass a variety of individual situations. They might include (but are not limited to):
- Excessive pressure during bowel movements
- Constipation
- Anal intercourse
- The childbirth process
- Passing hard and/or large stools
- Constant diarrhea
When it comes to anal fissures, there are a number of factors that can increase a person's risk. Some of these are also causes of this condition. Said risk factors may include:
- Age (anal fissures occur with greater frequency in infants and adults of middle age)
- Difficulty passing stool
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
- The childbirth process
- HIV and STDs
- Anal intercourse
What are the symptoms of an anal fissure?
The list of anal fissure symptoms includes (but is not limited to):
- A visible crack or tear in the skin surrounding the anus
- Bright red blood in the stool
- Painful bowel movements
- Lingering discomfort following a bowel movement
There is help for anyone dealing with anal fissures in Utah. We urge you to consult with a Utah Gastroenterology GI specialist if you suffer from more than one of the listed symptoms or if any of these symptoms become severe. Always contact a physician about blood showing up in your stool.
What are the possible complications of an anal fissure?
While anal fissures can be uncomfortable and disruptive to your daily life, they usually aren't a long-term danger to your health. Fissures are very common in adults. A few frequent complications that may result from the presence of an anal fissure may include:
- Surrounding muscle tears
- Lack of healing
- Recurrence of the fissure
You should talk with your gastroenterologist at Utah Gastroenterology about any worries you may have about complications from your anal fissure.
What are the treatments for an anal fissure?
In most cases, an anal fissure will heal without professional intervention within just a few weeks. Your GI doctor may make a few recommendations to help your fissure heal and prevent its recurrence. These suggestions might include:
- Eat a healthy diet high in fiber
- Drink a sufficient amount of water
- Avoid constipation
Alternate treatments can include:
- BOTOX® injections for the relaxation of muscles/spasms
- Topical creams and ointments to increase blood flow to the fissure, and for relief of pain
- Surgery (less common)
- Blood pressure medication to encourage relaxation of the anal sphincter
Always consult with your gastroenterology specialist to determine the optimal treatment options for you. Our team is determined to ensure that you get the individualized care and relief you deserve.
You deserve relief
Anal fissures can make it a struggle to just get through your daily life in comfort. If you or a family member is in need of treatment for anal fissures in Utah, help is available. For professional support, contact Utah Gastroenterology to connect with a gastroenterology doctor who will help you obtain the relief you need to have normal bowel movements. Call for an appointment today to start the process.
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