An anal fissure is a tear or open sore (ulcer) that develops in the lining of the large intestine, near the anus.
Anal fissure symptoms
The most common symptoms of anal fissures according to NHS are:
1. a sharp pain when you poo, often followed by a deep burning pain that may last several hours
2. bleeding when you poo, most people notice a small amount of bright red blood either in their poo or on the toilet paper.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if you think you have an anal fissure.
Do not let embarrassment stop you seeking help. Anal fissures are a common problem GPs are used to dealing with.
Most anal fissures get better without treatment, but a doctor will want to rule out other conditions with similar symptoms, such as piles (haemorrhoids).
They can also tell you about self-help measures and treatments that can relieve your symptoms and reduce the risk of fissures coming back.
Diagnosing anal fissures
The doctor will ask you about your symptoms and the type of pain you have been experiencing. They may also ask about your toilet habits.
They'll usually be able to see the fissure by gently parting your buttocks.
A digital rectal examination, where a doctor inserts a lubricated, gloved finger into your bottom to feel for abnormalities, is not usually used to diagnose anal fissures as it's likely to be painful.
The doctor may refer you for specialist assessment if they think something serious may be causing your fissure.
This may include a more thorough examination of your bottom carried out using anaesthetic to minimise pain.
Occasionally, a measurement of anal sphincter pressure may be taken for fissures that have not responded to simple treatments.
The anal sphincter is the ring of muscles that open and close the anus.
Content created and supplied by: Kwajaffa (via Opera News )
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