Anal Fissure
An anal fissure is a small tear in the lining of the anal canal. It typically causes sharp pain when passing a stool, often with a little bright red bleeding.
Symptoms
- Sharp or tearing pain during and after passing a stool
- Bright red blood on the paper or the stool surface
- Spasm of the anal muscle and a fear of going to the toilet
Treatment
Most fissures settle with softer stools, warm baths and ointments that relax the anal muscle and improve blood flow so the tear can heal. Fissures that do not heal, or that keep returning, may need a procedure to relieve the spasm.
When to seek review
A fissure that does not heal with treatment should be examined again, as other proctological conditions can look similar. Related pages include haemorrhoids and colorectal surgery.
Arrange a consultation
The rooms are at the Wits Donald Gordon Medical Centre, Parktown, Johannesburg.
Related pages
The information on this page is educational and does not replace a consultation with a qualified healthcare professional. Please discuss your own symptoms and treatment options with your doctor.