Can anal fissures heal on their own?
Disease description:
I have recently experienced anal pain during bowel movements, and sometimes there is also bleeding. After visiting the hospital, I was diagnosed with an anal fissure. I heard that some mild anal fissures can heal on their own, but I'm unsure whether my condition can also recover spontaneously.
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Li Jingxiang
An anal fissure is a common condition characterized by a tear in the lining of the anal canal, typically occurring in the posterior midline of the anus. Whether an anal fissure can heal on its own mainly depends on the severity of the fissure, the individual's overall health, and whether appropriate care measures are taken.
Mild anal fissures may heal spontaneously, depending on the specific condition of the fissure and the individual's healing capacity. If the fissure is caused by short-term constipation, it may heal naturally within a few weeks through dietary adjustments, increased intake of dietary fiber, and maintaining regular bowel movements.
If the fissure is deep, large, or complications such as sentinel piles or hypertrophied anal papillae have developed, the likelihood of spontaneous healing becomes very low. Surgical treatment may be required in such cases.
