Anal Fissure in Thibodaux, LA
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Find a ProviderWhat is an anal fissure?
Anal fissures are tiny rips, or cuts, in the tissue that lines the anus. There is thin tissue, called mucosa, that makes up the lining of your anus that could rip for a number of reasons, like the passing of large stools in a bowel movement. In most instances, anal fissures cause discomfort during bowel movements and the presence of blood in your stool. Anal fissures could also precipitate contractions in the muscle found 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 recurring issue. If you think you may be suffering from an anal fissure, call a Digestive Health Center location near you and request a consultation with a gastrointestinal specialist. Our specialists provide individualized care for anal fissures throughout the Thibodaux, LA community.
What are the causes of an anal fissure?
There are several common causes of anal fissures. The cause of an anal fissure will vary from case to case. They could include:
- Passing large and/or hard stools
- Difficulty passing stool
- Excessive pressure during bowel movements
- Constant diarrhea
- The childbirth process
- Anal intercourse
When it comes to anal fissures, there are also a few factors that can increase your risk. Some risks can also be the cause of anal fissures. These risk factors include:
- STDs and HIV
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
- Childbirth
- Difficulty passing stool
- Anal intercourse
- Age (anal fissures occur in higher numbers in infants and adults of middle age)
What are some symptoms of an anal fissure?
Symptoms will vary from person to person. Common symptoms of anal fissures can include:
- Bright red blood in the stool
- Visible cracking or tearing in the skin surrounding the anus
- Lasting discomfort after a bowel movement
- Uncomfortable bowel movements
There is help for anyone suffering from anal fissures in Thibodaux, LA. Our Digestive Health Center providers are dedicated to helping you alleviate your symptoms.
What are the possible complications of an anal fissure?
Anal fissures can be excessively painful but they do not usually progress into concerning conditions. Fissures are a common problem in adults. A few common complications that can result from an anal fissure include:
- Lack of healing
- Fissure recurrence
- Rifts in surrounding muscles
We encourage you to speak with your GI specialist at your nearest Digestive Health Center location about any concerns you may have about complications from your anal fissure.
What treatments are available for anal fissures?
Anal fissures will usually heal without professional intervention within a few weeks. To allow anal fissures to heal, and prevent them from returning, your GI provider may recommend that you:
- Consume a substantial amount of water
- Try not to become constipated
- Eat a healthy diet that is high in fiber
Other treatments may include:
- BOTOX® injections to relax muscle spasms
- Surgical intervention (less common)
- Topical ointments and creams to encourage flow of blood to the fissure, as well as for pain relief
- Blood pressure medication to encourage relaxation of the anal sphincter
Please speak with your GI provider to determine the best treatment plan for you. Our team is dedicated to ensuring that you receive the individualized care and relief you need.
Get relief from anal fissures
An anal fissure can be difficult to deal with. If you or a family member need treatment for anal fissures in Thibodaux, LA, we can help. For help with your condition, reach out to a local Digestive Health Center location to connect with a gastroenterologist that can help you get the relief you seek. Request a consultation at your earliest convenience to get started.
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