Anal Fissures Causes, Treatment and Remedies

Causes of Anal Fissures

Anal fissures refer to a condition where the anal tissues are characterized by an acute tear or crack or an ulcer. This can also lead to bleeding in the rectal tracks making defecation painful. These cracks could also get extended to the rectal canal. These ulcers cannot heal due to lack of blood supply. Anal fissures usually develop due to unhygienic toilet habits, lack of fibers in ones diet and also constipation. Spasms that occur in and around the anal area can cause fissures, as there is an inadequate supply of oxygen to the anal muscles.

Remedies For Anal Fissures

These fissures are mostly seen and experienced after childbirth and sometimes even during pregnancy. Usually it occurs within the first two months post child birth. Anal fissures develop sometimes due to long labor and when the baby is too heavy. But even a caesarian section does not prevent anal fissures. Some women go through, what is called ‘terminal constipation’ during pregnancy which is an important factor for the formation of anal fissures in pregnant women. Late deliveries could also result in anal fissures or could be a high risk factor. When deliveries are done using forceps, much damage is done to the area surrounding the anus; this is usually due to anal fissures. As fissures are caused due to constipation, precautions should be taken during pregnancy like; eating high fiber foods such as cereals, fresh fruits and vegetables and whole grain breads. Couple of spoons of unprocessed wheat bran could be added to your cereal every morning followed by a glass of water. One should ensure to drink plenty of water, at least 6 to 8 glasses of water a day or even fruit juices would be helpful. Exercise is a must and one should be regular. Walking, swimming and yoga help is easing the constipation and you would also feel fit and healthy. Kegel’s exercise is also very good to increase the circulation in the rectal area and strengthen the muscles decreasing the chances to develop fissures. You have to tense the muscles around your vagina and hold for 8 to 10 seconds before relaxing. Repeat the procedure for around 25 times. Remember to always use the washroom when u feel the urge, do not put it off for later. Using an ice pack or a cold compression soaked in witch hazel is very soothing, while some prefer a hot compression. You can start with an ice pack followed my warm bath. Instead of using colored and scented toilet paper, which causes irritation, use soft unscented, white toilet tissue. Moisten the tissue before using it or you can even use moist towelettes saturated with witch hazel instead.