The anus is the opening where the gastrointestinal tract ends and leaves the body. The anus begins at the base of the rectum, which is the last segment of the colon or large intestine. The anorectal line isolates the anus from the rectum. The anal canal is a short tube encompassed by muscles toward the end of the rectum.
An anal fissure is a tear or ulcer which is an open sore that normally occurs in the coating of the anal canal. Although it is common, fissures are frequently mistaken for other anal infections or diseases, like hemorrhoids. It can cause a painful sore in the skin of the anus. It is also called perianal fissure and manifests as an ulcer or tear on the covering of the anus.
Damages because of hard solid discharges often result to anal fissure. Frequent loose bowel movements can cause irritations in the anus which eventually develops into a fissure. Anal sex can also contribute to an anal tear, but cases are. When the anal sphincter experience spasms because of the fissure, healing might be delayed with the aggravation of pain.
The fissure can cause severe pain and occasional bleeding during defecation which continues for a short time. The pain may recur at next bowel movements as well. Fissures are suspected from the usual indications and the diagnosis can be affirmed by physical examination of the anus.
Acute or short-term anal fissures can be treated at home within a couple of days or weeks. However, a chronic or long-term anal fissure mostly last for around eight to twelve weeks. This kind of anal fissure may require immediate medical treatment.
Anal fissures are a typical issue and they influence individuals of any age, particularly young and healthy individuals. They are caused by damage or injury to the anal canal. This can occur at specific conditions, like when you release a hard stool, you attempt to pass a hard stool while you are constipated, you always experience diarrhea, and as well as, you give birth. Laboring and childbirth can injure the anal canal.
Fissures can likewise be caused by a rectal exam, anal sex, or a foreign object. At times, Crohn’s disease can also cause a fissure. Anal fissures will normally heal in fourteen days if the stool is kept soft, for example, increasing intake of fiber and liquids. Staying in warm water for 10 to 20 minutes a few times each day, particularly after you defecate, can help relax the sphincter.
Numerous experts think that additional pressure in the two muscular rings called sphincters, which controls the anus, might be the reason for fissures. The external anal sphincter can be controlled consciously. However, the internal sphincter is not. This muscle is underweight, or always under pressure. On the off chance that the weight increments excessively, it can cause spasms and decrease blood flow to the anus, prompting a fissure. This weight can likewise prevent a fissure from healing.
Fortunately, anal fissures generally don’t prompt more major issues. It is essential to consult a doctor for an appropriate analysis and treatment.