What is an anal fissure?
An anal fissure is a small split or tear in the skin lining the anal canal, often caused by passing hard stool. It can cause sharp pain and a little bleeding when passing stool.
Symptoms & when to see a doctor
Typical symptoms are sharp pain during and after passing stool, sometimes with bright-red bleeding. Persistent or recurring symptoms should be assessed by a doctor to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other causes.
Treatment options
Most fissures heal with measures to soften stool and relieve spasm, along with ointments. When a fissure becomes chronic and does not heal, a minor day-care procedure may be advised.
- High-fibre diet, fluids and stool softeners
- Topical ointments to relax the muscle and aid healing
- A minor procedure for chronic fissures that do not heal
Recovery
Most people recover quickly, particularly with non-surgical treatment.
Where suitable, this may be carried out using minimally invasive techniques. See Minimally Invasive Surgery.
Frequently asked questions
Do anal fissures heal on their own?
Many fissures heal with simple measures such as a high-fibre diet, stool softeners and ointments. A minor procedure is considered when a fissure becomes chronic and does not heal.
Is fissure surgery painful?
Treatments aim to relieve pain. When a procedure is needed it is usually minor and done as day-care; your surgeon will explain what to expect and how to manage discomfort.
Can an anal fissure come back after it heals?
Yes, fissures can recur, particularly if constipation or hard stools continue. A high-fibre diet, good hydration and softer stools reduce the chance of recurrence; your doctor can advise on ongoing prevention.