Anal Fissure Overview
Anal fissures are tears in the lining of the anus which may extend into the anal canal.
It is a very common condition and can affect people of all ages. Anal fissures can occur as a result of long periods of constipation or diarrhea. Nevertheless, they are sometimes associated with certain medical conditions, such as Inflammatory Bowel Disease(IBD).
What are the symptoms of anal fissures?
The most common symptoms of anal fissures are the following:
- Burning or itching around the anus
- Sharp pain in the anal area when passing stools
- Traces of blood on toilet paper after wiping
- Visible tear in the skin around the anus
How is an anal fissure diagnosed?
A doctor can usually diagnose an anal fissure quite easily just by history taking and observation. Sometimes, your doctor might recommend further testing if he/she suspects that you have an underlying condition. This diagnostic workup often includes a sigmoidoscopy or a total colonoscopy.
