Anal Fissures
The anus is the opening of the lowering end of the rectum. An anal fissure is a small split or tear in the lining (mucosa) of the anus. Anal fissures may cause painful bowel movements and bleeding. There may be blood on the outside of the stool or on the toilet tissue following a bowel movement.
Anal fissures are extremely common in young infants but may occur at any age. Studies suggest 80% of infants will have had an anal fissure by the end of the first year. Most fissures heal on their own and do not require treatment except good diaper hygiene. However, if symptoms (see below) of a fissure persist, you should contact your doctor as the fissure may require medical treatment.
The incidence of anal fissures decreases rapidly with age. Fissures are much less common among school-aged children than among infants.
In adults, fissures may be caused by constipation, the passing of large, hard stools, or by prolonged diarrhea. In older adults, anal fissures may be caused by decreased blood flow to the area. Adults should always bear in mind that new onset rectal bleeding (of any type) should be evaluated by your doctor to reduce your risk of Colon Cancer.
Anal fissures are also common in women after childbirth and in people with Crohn's disease.
Symptoms of an Anal Fissure
- Pain while having a bowel movement
- Blood on the surface of stool (not mixed in with stool)
- Blood on toilet tissue or wipes
- A crack in the skin that is visible when the anus is stretched slightly (the fissure is almost always in the midline)
- Constipation, often with painful bowel movements
