Nothing can possibly be as uncomfortable as developing anal fissures. These are lesions around the anus or anal canal caused by minor trauma in the area. Among its known causes include natural childbirth, constipation, intense diarrhea, or maintaining a low-fiber diet.
Anal fissures ordinarily heal by themselves within six weeks, and are not considered as serious conditions. However, the fissures may cause an overall discomfort around the anal and pelvic areas. These fissures can result to painful bowel movements or menstrual cramps.
When the pain becomes unbearable, people are already advised to seek professional advice to help lessen the sensitivity around the anal area. Doctors often prescribe topical ointments to soothe the pain. But not until recently, experts have discovered that nitroglycerin helps speed up the healing process.
Nonetheless, people still want to know if nitroglycerin 2% transdermal ointment can help in the treatment of anal fissures.
Nitric oxide is scientifically proven to be an effective neurotransmitter which helps the internal anal sphincter muscles to relax. In turn, this will help reduce the lesion’s sensitivity to pressure, which can help minimize the pain.
A study has been recently conducted among 35 adult patients who are experiencing both acute and chronic anal fissures. These patients were divided into two groups, with the first group receiving treatment with nitroglycerin ointment and the other being treated with ordinary anesthetic gel. Both groups are to be treated daily, and will receive manometry on the 14th and 28th days.
The results were surprising. On the 14th day, members of the first group reported anal fissure recovery at 60 percent. In contrast, those from the second group did not experience any healing at all. By the end of the 28-day period, the first group already recovered by 80 percent, while those in the second group only experienced recovery at 40 percent. And among those in the first group, members suffering from acute anal fissures experienced a healing rate of 91.6 percent, while those experiencing chronic anal fissures disclose a healing rate of 62.5 percent.
Thus, it is safe to conclude that nitroglycerin 2% transdermal ointment is an effective topical treatment for anal fissures. For the proper dosage instructions and application frequency, make sure to consult health professionals. This must not be taken lightly, as high doses of nitroglycerin have known side effects like headaches or low blood pressure.
But overall, it is recommended that people suffering from anal fissures – whether acute or chronic – should implement an overall lifestyle change to supplement this treatment. Make sure to drink plenty of water and switch to a high-fiber diet for an improved bowel cycle. This also reduces the risk for intense diarrhea or constipation. Additionally, taking warm baths of up to about 20 minutes per day helps in removing muscle tension.
To conclude, anal fissure is a highly treatable condition. While at its onset, a person must already consider home remedies to help speed up the healing process. Doing so avoids possible bacterial infections, and helps prevent its development into a chronic case.