Anal Fissure Treatment: How to Heal Anal Cracks Naturally

 

Anal Fissure Treatment

Causes and Risk Factors of Anal Fissures

There can be several causes behind the development of anal fissures. Constipation is one of the leading causes as it puts excess pressure on the anal canal during bowel movements. Anal fissures are also common in women after childbirth due to trauma caused during labor. Anal intercourse, Crohn's disease, tuberculosis, and anal cancers can increase the risk as well. Some other risk factors include diet low in fiber, ignoring the urge to defecate, medications that cause constipation, and infections in the anal region.

Symptoms of Anal Fissures

The primary symptom is severe pain or a burning sensation during and after bowel movements. There may also be slight bleeding from the anal opening. In some cases, a small tear or cut is visible around the outside of the anus. Secondary symptoms include itching or irritation in the anal area and hard or lumpy stools. Anal fissures don't heal on their own easily and symptoms can last for weeks if left untreated.

Lifestyle and Home Remedies for Anal Fissures

Making some dietary and lifestyle changes can help promote healing of anal fissures naturally:

- Eat a high-fiber diet rich in whole grains, vegetables, fruits, and legumes to soften stools and reduce straining. Anal Fissure Treatment Slowly increase fiber intake to avoid gas and bloating.

- Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated. Water helps add bulk and softness to stools.

- Avoid constipation using natural laxatives like prunes, flaxseeds, cashews, etc. as needed.

- Apply local anesthetics like lidocaine-based gels or creams on the fissure for temporary pain relief during bowel movements.

- Sitz baths in warm water help soothe the anal area and promote healing. Do it for 15 minutes, 2-3 times daily.

- Gently cleaning the anal area after bowel movement with water or an antiseptic cleanser can prevent infection.

- Use medicated pads or wipes containing witch hazel or calendula to disinfect the area.

- Apply aloe vera gel or coconut oil on the fissure for its anti-inflammatory and moisturizing properties.

- Practice pelvic floor exercises like Kegel to improve anal muscle tone and avoid straining.

Medical Treatments for Stubborn Anal Fissures

If home remedies don't provide relief within a few weeks, certain medical treatments may help:

Nitrate Ointments
Topical ointments containing nitroglycerin or isosorbide dinitrate work by relaxing the internal sphincter muscle and promoting blood flow to aid healing. They are usually prescribed for 6-8 weeks.

Botox Injections
Injecting botulinum toxin around the internal sphincter helps temporarily paralyze it, reducing pressure in the anal canal. Relieves symptoms in around 80% cases. May require multiple sessions for complete healing.

Lateral Internal Sphincterotomy

A minor surgical procedure to divide a part of the internal sphincter muscle manually. Highly effective in treating chronic anal fissures. Risk of some degree of minor incontinence of flatulence or liquid stool in 5-10% cases post-surgery.

Healing chronic anal fissures fully usually requires a combination of lifestyle modifications, topical medications tailored to each case, along with temporary relief from associated constipation or internal sphincter spasm. Consulting a colorectal surgeon is advisable for fissures not responding to initial treatments. Following doctor's instructions religiously helps speedy recovery.

Preventing Recurrence of Anal Fissures

Once an anal fissure has healed completely, the following measures can help prevent recurrence:

- Maintain a high-fiber diet to avoid constipation and straining.

- Drink plenty of fluids every day to stay hydrated and pass soft stools.

- Practice Kegel exercises regularly to strengthen pelvic floor muscles.

- Go for sitz baths or use soothing topical creams periodically for anal relaxation.

- Monitor for signs of constipation and address it timely using natural laxatives.

- Manage stress and lifestyle factors that can cause anal spasm or straining during bowel movements.

- Seek medical advice early if any symptoms of anal fissure recur instead of self-medicating.

With consistent lifestyle changes and timely medical intervention, even chronic anal fissures can be cured fully. Prevention is always better than cure, so maintaining good anal hygiene, diet and bowel habits go a long way in keeping fissures at bay.

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