What to eat after anal fissure surgery

Nov 14, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Li Jingxiang

Introduction

In general, suitable foods to eat after anal fissure surgery include bananas, spinach, millet porridge, honey, and lean meat. A proper diet can promote wound healing and reduce bowel movement irritation. After surgery, it is important to avoid spicy, fried, and hard foods; opt instead for small, frequent meals and avoid overeating. Additionally, ensure adequate fluid intake, with a minimum of 1,500 milliliters of water per day.

Generally, suitable foods to eat after anal fissure surgery include bananas, spinach, millet porridge, honey, and lean meat. A proper diet can promote wound healing and reduce bowel movement irritation. The details are as follows:

1. Bananas

Bananas are rich in dietary fiber and pectin, which absorb moisture in the intestines and soften stools, helping to avoid excessive straining during bowel movements that could pull on the surgical wound. Dietary fiber also promotes intestinal motility, reduces the time feces remain in the intestines, and minimizes friction and irritation from hard stools against the wound.

2. Spinach

Spinach contains abundant dietary fiber and vitamin C. The dietary fiber enhances intestinal peristalsis and helps maintain smooth bowel movements; vitamin C promotes collagen synthesis, a vital nutrient for wound healing, thus accelerating tissue repair.

3. Millet Porridge

Millet porridge has a soft texture and is easily digested and absorbed, placing no burden on the intestines while quickly replenishing energy. Its B vitamins help maintain the health of the intestinal mucosa, reduce gastrointestinal discomfort, and create a favorable internal environment for wound healing.

4. Honey

Honey contains abundant fructose and various enzymes. Fructose stimulates intestinal motility, while enzymes aid digestion and absorption. Additionally, honey has a moisturizing effect that can alleviate pain during defecation and reduce stool irritation to the wound.

5. Lean Meat

Lean meat is rich in high-quality protein. Protein is the fundamental building block of human cells and tissues and is the most essential nutrient for wound healing, providing ample raw materials for tissue regeneration and accelerating wound recovery.

After surgery, it is important to avoid spicy, fried, and hard foods. Eating smaller meals more frequently and avoiding overeating is recommended. Adequate hydration should be maintained—drinking at least 1500 mL of water daily—and mild physical activity such as walking can further support bowel movements and wound recovery.

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Can constipation and anal fissures heal on their own?

In general, whether constipation-related anal fissures can heal spontaneously mainly depends on the type and severity of the fissure. After developing an anal fissure, it is important to first determine its type rather than blindly waiting for self-healing. In daily life, avoid prolonged sitting to reduce pressure around the anus; avoid prolonged squatting during bowel movements and keep bowel movements brief. If the anal fissure persists for more than two weeks without healing, or if symptoms such as increased pain or heavier bleeding occur, prompt medical attention is necessary.

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Can patients with anal fissures run?

In general, whether patients with anal fissures can run depends on the severity of their condition and overall physical health. If there is obvious discomfort or worsening symptoms, prompt medical attention is recommended. Before running, individuals should assess their symptoms to determine the current stage of the condition. Wear loose, breathable clothing to minimize friction around the anus, and clean the anal area promptly after running to keep the area dry.

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How to quickly relieve pain from anal fissures

Pain from anal fissures can be relieved with topical analgesic ointments, warm sitz baths, adjusting bowel habits, using lubricants, and avoiding irritation to the affected area. These measures can quickly alleviate pain and reduce further damage to the fissure site. If pain continues to worsen, bleeding increases, or signs of infection appear, prompt medical attention is recommended. Use ointments containing ingredients such as lidocaine under a doctor's guidance.

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How to treat pain from anal fissures

Treatment methods for anal fissure pain include warm water sitz baths, adjusting diet, improving bowel habits, topical medications for symptom relief, and surgical intervention when necessary. The appropriate approach should be selected based on the severity of the condition; most mild cases can be relieved with conservative treatment. If pain persists or worsens, bleeding becomes frequent, or signs of infection appear, prompt medical attention is recommended.