Anal Fissure in Hattiesburg, MS
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Find a ProviderWhat is an anal fissure?
Anal fissures are defined as a tiny tear, or cut, in the tissue lining the anus. The fragile, easily damaged tissue, called mucosa, that serves as the lining of the anus can get tears in it for a number of reasons, such as the passing of large stools in a bowel movement. Most commonly, anal fissures cause pain with bowel movements and the presence of blood in your stool. An anal fissure could also lead to contractions in the muscle at the end of the anus called the anal sphincter.
Anal fissures are considered a chronic condition if you have had the fissure for 6 – 8 weeks or if it is a commonly recurring issue. If you think you might be suffering from anal fissures, reach out to Hattiesburg GI Associates, PLLC and request a consultation with a gastrointestinal physician. Our doctors commonly provide personalized treatment for anal fissures in Hattiesburg, MS.
What causes an anal fissure?
There are a number of commonplace causes of anal fissures. Causes may include a variety of unique things, including but not limited to:
- Recurring diarrhea
- Childbirth
- Straining during bowel movements
- Anal intercourse
- Constipation
- Passing hard and/or large stools
There are also a few factors that might increase an individual's risk of developing anal fissures. Such risk factors might include:
- Age (anal fissures occur more commonly in infants and adults of middle age)
- Constipation
- HIV and STDs
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
- Childbirth
- Anal intercourse
What are the signs of an anal fissure?
Usual signs and symptoms of an anal fissure can include:
- Painful bowel movements
- Continuing discomfort after a bowel movement
- A visible crack or tear in the skin surrounding the anus
- Bright red blood in the stool
There is assistance available for those suffering from anal fissures in Hattiesburg, MS. You should consult with a Hattiesburg GI Associates, PLLC GI provider if you suffer from any combination of the listed symptoms, or if any one of these symptoms increases in severity. You should always contact a physician should you become aware of blood in your stool.
What are the possible complications of an anal fissure?
Anal fissures can be excessively painful, but they do not usually point to subsequent serious conditions. Fissures are common in adults. An example of some frequent complications that may result from the presence of anal fissure can include:
- Inability of the fissure to heal
- Tears in surrounding muscles
- Fissure recurrence
We urge you to consult with a gastroenterology doctor at Hattiesburg GI Associates, PLLC about any concerns you may have in regard to complications from your anal fissure.
How are anal fissures treated?
Anal fissures will typically heal without professional intervention within a few weeks. To allow for the healing of anal fissures and decrease the chance that they'll come back, your gastroenterology physician may suggest that you:
- Avoid foods that cause constipation
- Drink plenty of water
- Eat a healthy diet high in fiber
Alternative treatment options may include:
- Surgical intervention (less common)
- Topical creams and ointments to increase blood flow to the fissure and for analgesic effects
- BOTOX® injections for the relaxation of muscles/spasms
- Blood pressure medication to encourage relaxation of the anal sphincter
Please consult with your gastroenterology doctor in regard to the best treatment plan for you. Our team is determined to ensure that you get the specific treatment and relief you need.
You deserve relief
Anal fissures can be a struggle to deal with. If you are in need of treatment for anal fissures in Hattiesburg, MS, we can help. For assistance, reach out to Hattiesburg GI Associates, PLLC to get connected with a gastroenterology specialist who can help you obtain the relief you need to have regular bowel movements. Request a consultation today to begin the process.
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