Let's talk about a common problem called anal fissures. This might feel like a tricky topic, but it's important to understand what they are and how to take care of them. In this blog, we will explain what causes anal fissures, what they feel like, and the ways to make them better.

• Straining Too Hard: When you push too much during a bowel movement, it can hurt your bottom.
• Constipation: Hard and dry poop can be tough to pass, and it may hurt your bottom lining.
• Diarrhea: Frequent loose stools can irritate the area around your bottom.
• Childbirth: Sometimes, anal fissures can happen during childbirth.
• Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Conditions like Crohn's disease can increase the chances of getting fissures.

• Pain During Bowel Movements: Passing stool can be painful due to the fissure.
• Bleeding: You may notice bright red blood on the toilet paper or in the toilet bowl.
• Itching or Burning Sensation: The area around your bottom may feel itchy or hot.
• Visible Tear or Cut: Sometimes, you can see a small tear or crack near your bottom.

• Use Over-the-Counter Creams: There are creams available at the store that contain ingredients like hydrocortisone. These can help with redness and itching. Follow the instructions on the package.
• Take Warm Baths (Sitz Baths): Soaking in a warm bath can help you feel better and help the fissure heal. Perform this exercise for 15 to 20 minutes several times per day.
• Eat More Fiber: Foods high in fiber can make your poop soft and easier to pass. Good choices include whole grains, fruits, vegetables and legumes.
• Stay Hydrated: Drinking enough water is essential for keeping your stool soft and easy to pass.
• Try Stool Softeners: If changing your diet alone doesn't help, you can get stool softeners at the store or with a doctor's prescription. They have the potential to make bowel movements more comfortable.
• Prescription Medications: In some cases, your doctor may prescribe medications to relax the muscles around your bottom, which can help with healing.

• Persistent Symptoms: If your symptoms don't improve within a few weeks of home treatment, it's a good idea to seek medical advice.
• Severe Pain or Bleeding: If your pain is severe or if you experience heavy bleeding, you should see a doctor promptly.
• Recurrent Fissures: If you have anal fissures that keep coming back, it's important to identify and address any underlying causes, such as inflammatory bowel disease.

• Nitroglycerin Ointment: Nitroglycerin can help relax the anal sphincter muscles and promote blood flow to the area, which can aid in healing.
• Botox Injection: Botox can be injected into the anal sphincter to relax the muscles temporarily, allowing the fissure to heal.
• Lateral Internal Sphincterotomy: In this surgical procedure, a small portion of the anal sphincter muscle is cut to relieve pressure and promote healing.
• Dilation: Dilation involves stretching the anal canal gently to promote healing. It's often done under anesthesia.