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     An anal fissure is a small mucosal tear in the rectal area.

     The crack in this sensitive area causes bleeding and intense pain.

     A fissure can appear in men and women of any age.

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Symptoms:

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• Discomfort and pain, sometimes severe, during bowel movements - Pain that may persist for several hours after bowel movements - Fresh blood may accompany the stool or be present on toilet paper after wiping - A visible crack in the skin around the anus may be observed - There may be spasms in the internal sphincter muscle of the anus, which can be persistent and worsen constipation.

 

Common Factors:

 

• Hard and dry feces can stretch and tear the skin in the anal area - Constipation and straining during bowel movements increase the risk of tears.  

      Diarrhea, whether chronic or temporary, can also be a contributing factor - Anal  sex can lead to fissures - Postpartum women are at higher risk - Fissures can occur at  any age but are more common in infants and middle-aged individuals.

 

Other Factors (but quite rare):

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• Inflammatory bowel diseases (e.g., Crohn's disease or colitis) can increase sensitivity and vulnerability in the anal area - Rectal cancer - Syphilis - Tuberculosis - HIV or other immunosuppressive conditions.

 

Difference Between Hemorrhoids and Fissures:

 

• A fissure is a crack in the anal canal, while hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels in the same area. Although these are distinct conditions, they share similar causes and symptoms and can sometimes occur together. A common underlying cause for both is constipation and straining due to hard stools, which can result in bleeding, localized burning, and pain.

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Inspection:

 

• A visual examination by a proctologist can help differentiate between the two conditions. Adopting a healthy lifestyle, proper nutrition, and avoiding harmful habits can significantly aid in the recovery from both hemorrhoids and fissures.

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