Can anal fissures in children heal on their own?
Disease description:
Our five-year-old child has been crying and fussing during bowel movements recently. I noticed a slight crack at the anal area and am worried whether it can heal on its own and what precautions should be taken in daily life.
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Li Jingxiang
Anal fissures in children are usually caused by dry stools, constipation, or excessive straining during bowel movements, resulting in a superficial tear in the skin of the anal canal. Mild anal fissures may heal on their own, but proper care from parents is necessary to promote healing and prevent infection. For example, increasing the intake of fiber-rich foods such as vegetables and fruits, and reducing consumption of spicy and greasy foods. Warm water sitz baths several times a day can also help relieve anal pain and improve blood circulation.
However, if the fissure persists for a long time, or if it is deep and wide, the likelihood of spontaneous healing is significantly reduced. These types of fissures often develop into chronic ulcers and require treatment with medications or surgery to achieve healing.
