Anal Fissure

Overview

An anal fissure is an acute or chronic ulcerative tear in the skin of the anal canal below the dentate line. It is clinically characterized by cyclical anal pain, bleeding, and constipation, and prolonged cases may lead to iron-deficiency anemia from chronic blood loss.

Symptoms

• Pain on defecation
• Bleeding after defecation
• Anal itching
• Constipation

Treatment

Management focuses on keeping stools soft, warm sitz baths, and topical medication; chronic non-healing fissures may require surgery.

Dietary advice

Eat plenty of fiber-rich foods and drink ample fluids; avoid spicy, irritating foods and keep stools soft.