Does an anal fissure cause pain?
Disease description:
I have recently experienced severe anal pain during bowel movements, especially when the stool is dry or hard. I am concerned that this might be an anal fissure and would like to know if anal fissures can cause pain.
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Li Jingxiang
Anal fissure is one of the common diseases affecting the anal area, primarily characterized by a full-thickness tear in the anal skin or mucosa, forming a small ulcer. Patients with anal fissures experience severe tearing or knife-like pain during bowel movements. This pain may last for several hours and may not subside until before the next bowel movement.
For patients with anal fissures, relieving pain and promoting healing are key. Patients are advised to take sitz baths, soaking the anus in warm saline or potassium permanganate solution to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. At the same time, patients should adjust their dietary habits in daily life, increase intake of dietary fiber, drink more water, maintain regular bowel movements, and prevent constipation. If symptoms of anal fissure persist or worsen, prompt medical attention is recommended.
