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What is an Anal Fissure?

An anal fissure is a tear or open wound (ulcer) that develops in the lining of the large intestine which is usually close to the anus. An anal fissure is usually painful and may or may not cause bleeding. An anal fissure usually results from a trauma to the anal canal. Anal fissures usually affects people of all ages but is most rampant in children, young adults and middle aged people.

What Causes Anal fissure?

The major cause of a fissure are strains leading to a tear in the surrounding skin the anus. The reasons for such strains includes one or more of the followimng;

Decreased blood flow to the anorectal region

Strains due to constipation

Frequent diarrhea

Pregnancy and strains during childbirth

Tightness of the ring of muscles that opens and closes the anus.

Abnormal sphincter muscles

Injury to the anus from scratching or wiping stool in the wrong motion

Diagnosis of Anal Fissure

An anal fissure is usually diagnosed by a physical examination by the Doctor in the hospital. If you experience symptoms such passing bloody faeces, a visible crack or tear in the anus, burning and itching to painful sensation, do not make any assumptions or self medicate.

Please do not feel shy or embarassed to see a Doctor for a critical physical examination. A digital rectal examination is performed to check for abnormalities while for persons aged 45 upwards, a colonoscopy exam may be performed.

What are the Symptoms of Anal fissures?

Bloody stools

A tear in the anus which is quite visible to the eyes

Constipation

A burning and itchy sensation

Frequent urination

Smelly discharge

Anal fissure treatment in Nigeria

Anal fissure in severe cases is best treated with surgery. At the chronic level when an anal fissure fails to heal, it may result in the formation of extensive scar tissue known as pile. Anal fissure in severe cases is best treated with surgery. Book for a Doctor's appointment to permanently cure anal fissure click here

How to Prevent Anal fissure

Lifestyle modifications and developing healthy habits can help in the prevention of Anal fissure and they include;

Increased intake of water

Increased fibre consumption

Consumption of fibre-rich supplements

Wipe the anus gently after using the bathroom

Avoid strained stooling

Always staying well hydrated by consuming plenty of healthy fluids

Not ignoring the urge to use the toilet as this may make your poo dry out and become difficult to pass

Exercising regularly ( you should aim to do at least 150 minutes of physical exercise in a day)

Cost of treatment for anal fissure in Nigeria

Anal fissure repair surgery costs depends on various factors like;

1. Type of treatment chosen

2. Age and gender of the patient

3. Location and choice of the Hospital

4. Experience of Surgeon

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is there a permanent cure for anal fissure

Surgery is the most effective and permanent treatment for anal fissures. Homeopathic therapy may also be used to treat non-chronic cases but however, do not attempt to self medicate.

2. What Doctor is best for anal fissure?

Gastroenterologist or a Colorectal surgeon is the best Doctor to effectively handle an anal fissure. Click here to book for a gastroenterologist.

3. How long does anal fissure last?

Six weeks beginning from the commencement of treatment is the optimum time for complete healing.

4. How much is fissure operation?

This totally depends on given factors such as your loction, choice of hospital and Specialist who will undertake the surgery.

5. What does anal fissure look like?

They typically look like one or more tears or cracks around the anus and when a pile is developed, a small mass of extra skin is seen to hang below the opening of the anus.

6. Are anal fissures painful?

Yes they are quite painful as you feel a sharp pain everytime you need to used the rest room which is accompanied by a burning sensation right after that.

Disclaimer: The information provided herein is for patient general knowledge only and should not be used during any medical emergency, diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. Duplication for personal and commercial use must be authorized in writing by Surjen.com.