What are Fissures ? Fissures Symptoms, Causes & Treatment Options?
Pain while passing stool, fresh blood on toilet paper, or a constant burning sensation in the anus are signs many people ignore at first. But these symptoms often point to a common yet painful condition called an anal fissure. Understanding fissures early can help you get faster relief and avoid long-term problems.
In this guide, Fissure Specialist in Thrissur Dr. Raviram S. explain what fissures are, their symptoms, main causes, and the best treatment options, including home remedies, medicines, and advanced care available in Thrissur.
What Are Fissures?
A fissure is a small cut or tear in the lining of the anus. In medical terms, this is called an anal fissure or fissure in ano.
Think of it like a paper cut—but in a very sensitive area. Even a tiny fissure can cause severe pain, burning, and bleeding during or after bowel movements.
Fissure Meaning (Medical)
- Fissure definition: A linear tear in the anal canal skin
- Fissures in the body: Can occur anywhere, but anal fissures are the most painful
- Tiny fissures: Small tears that can still cause intense discomfort
Common Symptoms of Anal Fissure
If you are experiencing any of the following, you may have a fissure:
- Sharp pain while pooping
- Burning sensation in the anus after stool
- Fresh red blood with stool or on toilet paper
- Feeling of a wound or cut in the anus
- Itchy butthole or irritation around the anal area
- Pain that lasts for hours after bowel movement
- Fear of using the toilet due to pain
Fissure pain is often described as severe or unbearable, especially in chronic cases. Early diagnosis and timely treatment by an experienced Proctologist in Thrissur, Kerala, such as Dr. Raviram S., can effectively relieve pain, speed up healing, and significantly reduce the risk of recurrence.
Causes of Fissures:
- Hard stool or hard poo
- Chronic constipation
- Excessive straining during bowel movements
- Low-fiber diet
- Not drinking enough water
- Chronic diarrhea
- Pregnancy and childbirth
- Sitting for long hours
- Anal infections or inflammation
- Conditions like Crohn’s disease
In simple words, anything that injures or overstretches the anal skin can cause a fissure.
Why Fissure Happens Again and Again?
Repeated fissures usually happen when:
- Constipation is not treated properly
- Diet remains low in fiber
- Pain causes sphincter muscle spasm, delaying healing
- This cycle turns an acute fissure into a chronic fissure, which needs expert care.
How Are Fissures Diagnosed?
Diagnosis is usually simple:
- Clinical examination by a fissure specialist doctor
- No major tests needed in most cases
- Advanced tests only if symptoms are unusual
At Thrissur Piles Clinic, Dr. Raviram S carefully evaluates the fissure to decide the best treatment—medical or procedural.
Best Treatment Options for Anal Fissure
A. Fissure Treatment Without Surgery
Most fissures heal without surgery if treated early.
- Medicines & Care Include:
- Fissure ointment or fissure cream
- Pain-relief gels
- Stool softeners
- Sitz bath for fissure (warm water soak)
- High-fiber diet
- Plenty of fluids
Many patients ask:
Can fissures heal on their own?
Yes, acute fissures often heal within 1–2 weeks with proper care.
B. Home Remedies for Anal Fissure:
Helpful home remedies include:
- Warm sitz bath 2–3 times daily
- Fiber-rich foods (fruits, vegetables, whole grains)
- Avoid spicy food
- Avoid straining
- Regular toilet timing
These remedies support healing but may not cure chronic fissures alone.
C. Medical Treatment for Chronic Fissure
When pain persists:
- Prescription medicines to relax anal muscles
- Nitroglycerin ointment for fissures (under medical guidance)
- Advanced non-surgical treatments
- Laser treatment for anal fissure in Thrissur (for selected cases)
Lifestyle Changes for Prevention:
Living a lifestyle that supports digestive health is crucial for preventing and managing fissures. Here are some simple yet effective changes you can incorporate into your daily routine:
- Balanced and Fiber-Rich Diet: Maintaining a balanced diet that includes a good amount of fiber is like giving your digestive system a superhero boost. Fiber adds bulk to your stool, making it softer and easier to pass, reducing the strain on your anal area. Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes in your meals. It’s a delicious way to keep things moving smoothly!
- Regular Exercise for Overall Digestive Health: Exercise isn’t just for fitness – it plays a significant role in keeping your digestive system in top-notch condition. A daily walk, light jogging, or any activity that gets your body moving helps stimulate bowel movements and prevents constipation.
- Timely Bathroom Breaks and Avoiding Prolonged Sitting: Sometimes life gets busy, and we ignore the call of nature. But timely bathroom breaks are essential for your digestive health. When nature calls, answer promptly to avoid unnecessary strain. Also, try not to sit for prolonged periods, especially on the throne.
How Long Do Anal Fissures Take to Heal?
- Acute fissure: 7–14 days
- Chronic fissure: 3–6 weeks with proper treatment
- Untreated fissures may worsen over time
When Should You See a Fissure Specialist?
Consult a Dr. Raviram S. Proctologist doctor at Thrissur Piles Clinic immediately if:
- Pain is severe or worsening
- Bleeding continues
- Home remedies don’t help in 2 weeks
- You suspect a chronic fissure
Early care prevents surgery.
Conclusion:
Anal fissures are common but extremely painful. The good news is that most fissures are treatable, especially when diagnosed early. With the right diet, medicines, and expert guidance, you can heal faster and avoid recurrence.
If you’re struggling with fissure pain, don’t wait. Consult Dr. Raviram S at Thrissur Piles Clinic for safe, effective, and lasting relief.