Can Fissures Cause Narrow or Thin Stools?
Anal fissures are extremely painful and very uncomfortable small tears in the anus lining. The main causes of these fissures are diarrhea that lasts for a long time or passing firm stools. One question that people with anal fissures frequently have is whether they can result in thin or narrow stools or not?
In this blog, we are going to look into the connection between anal fissures and stool changes. Are you having anal fissures and other symptoms? If so, you can get expert care and guidance from Dr. Raviram S, an experienced Anal Fissure doctor in Thrissur.
Understanding Anal Fissures:
Small, linear tears or fractures in the mucosal lining of the anus are known as anal fissures. They are usually brought on by damage to the anal canal, which can occur as a result of straining during bowel motions, passing large or hard stools, or persistent diarrhea. Significant discomfort from anal fissures might include pain during and after bowel movements, itching, and occasionally bleeding. For the best anal fissure treatment in Thrissur, Dr. Raviram S offers specialized care at Thrissur Piles Clinic to address these issues effectively.
The Relationship Between Stool Shape and Fissures:
- Pain and Strain: Pain in the anal area is the biggest sign of an anal fissure particularly if it is during and after the bowel motion. People may unconsciously alter their bowel habits to reduce the discomfort caused by the pain of the fissure. When people are having a bowel movement, for instance, they may not strain as much or even assume uncomfortable positions. This, in turn, can change the shape and substance of their stools.
- Compensatory Changes: People who have fissure pain may start passing thinner, smaller stools as a way to alleviate their pain. The sphincter, which is the muscle that controls the release of stool, can also relax more when a person has pain to prevent the pain, thus, the creation of thin or narrow stools.
- Inflammation and Scar Tissue: A long-standing anal fissure may bring about inflammation and scar tissue formation. The narrowing of the anal canal due to scar tissue may be the reason for thin or narrow stools since it allows the stool to pass through a smaller opening.
Diagnosis and Treatment:
If you notice persistent changes in your stool shape, along with pain or discomfort, it’s important to consult Dr. Raviram S. A thorough assessment, including a physical exam and possible imaging, may be needed to determine the cause.
- Pain Relief: Over-the-counter painkillers or prescription drugs could help cope with pain.
- Stool Softeners: They can help you have a smoother bowel movement and breathing effort.
- High-Fiber Diet: More fiber in the diet will make the stool softer and regular and even avoid constipation.
- Topical Treatments: Medicated creams or ointments can be prescribed to heal and soothe the pain.
- Surgical Options: If the condition is chronic, surgery may be done to correct the fissure and relieve symptoms.
- Botox Injection:Botox works by relaxing the surrounding muscles, thus helping to heal chronic anal fissures. This outpatient procedure is fast and gives relief for a few months.
Dr. Raviram S. provides specialized laser fissure treatment in Thrissur, offering effective and advanced care tailored to your needs.
Tips for Preventing Anal Fissures:
Making lifestyle modification and maintaining a regular bowel routine are key to preventing anal fissures:
- Avoid Straining: To avoid overstretching when having bowel motions, adopt healthy bowel habits.
- Routine Exercise: To encourage regular bowel movements and a healthy digestive system, move regularly.
- Constipation: To reduce symptoms, eat more fiber and drink plenty of water.
- Hemorrhoids: Increase your intake of water and fiber to help ease the pain of hemorrhoids.
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Effectively manage symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome by making dietary and lifestyle changes.
When to See a Specialist:
If you are experiencing persistent symptoms, including narrow or thin stools, it is essential to consult a specialist. Dr. Raviram S, a leading Proctologist in Thrissur, can provide expert care for anal fissures and other related conditions. With extensive experience treating complex colorectal issues, Dr. Raviram S offers personalized treatment plans to address your specific needs and help you achieve optimal health.
Conclusion:
In summary, while anal fissures themselves do not instantly cause narrow or thin stools, the underlying factors contributing to fissures, such as straining and hard stools, can influence stool characteristics. With the right care and lifestyle adjustments, you can manage anal fissures effectively and improve your overall bowel health. For expert advice and Anal Fissure Surgery in Thrissur, consider consulting Dr. Raviram S, a highly skilled Colorectal surgeon in Thrissur dedicated to providing top-notch care for colorectal conditions.