Are Anal Fissures and HIV Aids Related

By | July 1, 2017

HIV, or Human ImmunoDeficiency Virus, and anal fissures are related in a sense that the virus can enter through the open wound, or in this case, in anal fissures, during sexual intercourse, more specifically in anal sex, and go through the bloodstream to be spread across the body.

But first, what is HIV? HIV is a virus that brings AIDS, or Acquired ImmunoDeficiency Syndrome. It attacks the immune system of the person, leading to a defense breach against infections that the body may detect within its territory. As a result of the weakened immune system, the patient eventually becomes more prone to diseases. Most HIV/AIDS patients die not from the virus itself but because of the complications associated with a weak immune response. This virus can be passed on through unprotected sexual intercourse or sharing of syringes and needles (this is why hospitals must use disposable needles and syringes in performing treatments).

As humans explore their sexuality and, in line with this, different sexual positions, anal sex is formed, and with it, the added possibility of developing anal fissures. Unlike the vagina, the anus cannot expand as wide enough for the penis to go comfortably inside. Also, the anal area lacks the lubrication that the vagina has in order to pass the penis more smoothly and easily. With this in mind, some people, especially those who are not used to the stretching brought by anal sex, and who were not prepared enough to do so, develop anal fissures because of it.

By pushing the anal walls to expand beyond its limit, it is not surprising that anal fissures can occur, which can cause pain and discomfort on the receiver once the sexual deed is finished and the penis is out of the anus. And if the giver has a sexually transmitted disease, or STD, and has not used a condom during the intercourse, he can pass this on to the receiver through the open wound or anal fissure as his bodily fluids, or semen, stays in the anal area.

Thus, it can do no harm if the patient who has anal fissures also tests for HIV, especially if he or she is sexually active and has anal sex as part of his or her repertoire of sexual positions. It may be embarrassing to admit at first, but in order to receive the best treatment and explore any options available, the person must trust his or her medical provider enough and believe that his or her case would be treated with the utmost confidentiality.

If the patient tested negative to the virus, he or she may proceed to the standard treatment for anal fissures depending on the severity of the symptoms and the tear itself. However, if tested positive, the patient will be given options and information on how the treatment will proceed.

Unfortunately, once HIV is inside the body, it stays there for life. The goal of the treatment, therefore, is to delay its spread across the different organ systems and improve the quality of life of the patient. Thankfully, the virus can be controlled, and the treatments for HIV, especially if given early on, has shown to improve the longevity of the patients’ lives, maintain their health status, and decrease their chance of transmitting it to others. Today, a person with HIV can live as long as a person who does not have them.