An anal fissure is a small tear in the lining of the anus that can cause sharp pain and bleeding during or after bowel movements. While fissures are common and often heal with conservative care, some become chronic and require medical treatment. The gastroenterologists at The Gastroenterology Group offer compassionate, evidence-based care to help patients find lasting relief and prevent recurrence.
What Causes an Anal Fissure?
Anal fissures can occur when the delicate tissue around the anus is stretched or injured. Common causes include:
- Passing large or hard stools
- Chronic constipation or diarrhea
- Straining during bowel movements
- Childbirth or trauma to the anal area
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
- Reduced blood flow to the anal tissue
When the tear causes pain, the surrounding muscles (especially the internal anal sphincter) can spasm, which limits blood flow and delays healing—creating a painful cycle.
Common Symptoms
Anal fissures typically cause:
- Sharp, burning, or tearing pain during bowel movements
- Bright red blood on toilet paper or stool
- Itching or irritation around the anus
- A small visible tear or crack
- Spasms or a tight feeling after bowel movements
These symptoms can mimic hemorrhoids, so proper diagnosis by a gastroenterologist is important.
Diagnosis at The Gastroenterology Group
Your doctor will begin with a careful review of your symptoms and a gentle physical or visual examination of the anal area. In some cases, if symptoms are severe or chronic, additional testing such as anoscopy or sigmoidoscopy may be used to rule out other conditions like hemorrhoids, abscesses, or inflammatory bowel disease.
Treatment Options
Most anal fissures heal within a few weeks with simple measures, including:
- Stool softeners or increased dietary fiber to prevent straining
- Warm sitz baths several times a day to relax the muscles and increase blood flow
- Topical creams or ointments (such as nitroglycerin, calcium channel blockers, or hydrocortisone) to reduce pain and promote healing
- Increased hydration and avoidance of constipation triggers
If conservative measures fail, botulinum toxin injections or lateral internal sphincterotomy (LIS)—a minor surgical procedure—may be recommended for chronic fissures.
Q&A: Understanding Anal Fissures
Q: How long does it take for an anal fissure to heal?
A: Most acute fissures heal within 2–4 weeks with proper care. Chronic fissures lasting longer than 6–8 weeks may need prescription treatment or surgical intervention.
Q: Can I prevent an anal fissure from coming back?
A: Yes. Prevent recurrence by maintaining soft stools through a high-fiber diet, drinking plenty of water, and avoiding straining during bowel movements.
Q: Is an anal fissure the same as hemorrhoids?
A: No. While both cause pain and bleeding, hemorrhoids are swollen veins, whereas fissures are tears in the tissue. A gastroenterologist can differentiate between them.
Q: Are anal fissures dangerous?
A: Most are not dangerous but can be very painful. Chronic fissures can lead to persistent discomfort or infection, so it’s important to seek treatment if symptoms don’t improve.
Contact The Gastroenterology Group
Akron Location
570 White Pond Dr., Suite 200
Akron, OH 44320
📞 Phone: 330-869-0954
Massillon Location
6724 Wales Ave NW
Massillon, OH 44646
📞 Phone: 330-869-0954
At The Gastroenterology Group, our experienced physicians offer advanced, personalized treatment for anal fissures. Don’t live with pain—schedule an appointment today and begin healing comfortably.