
Is hemorrhoid cream effective for anal fissures?
I am a patient with anal fissure, and I often experience pain and bleeding during bowel movements. I have heard that hemorrhoid ointment can treat symptoms of various anorectal diseases. I would like to ask if using hemorrhoid ointment is effective for anal fissure?

In general, hemorrhoid ointment can be effective for anal fissures.
Anal fissures refer to tears or ruptures in the skin of the anal canal, with common symptoms including pain during bowel movements and bleeding. Hemorrhoid ointment, a commonly used topical medication, has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties and promotes tissue regeneration. It is clinically used to treat symptoms such as bleeding and pain caused by hemorrhoids. For anal fissures, hemorrhoid ointment can also provide certain therapeutic effects, especially in the early stages, helping to relieve pain and bleeding during defecation, providing lubrication, and reducing irritation caused by constipation. However, it cannot fundamentally cure anal fissures.
In treating anal fissures, the first step is to maintain regular, smooth bowel movements and avoid constipation and diarrhea, which can worsen the fissure. Secondly, topical medications can be used to relieve symptoms, such as creams containing local anesthetics or muscle relaxants, which help reduce pain and promote healing of the fissure. Additionally, dietary adjustments are important, including consuming more fiber-rich foods and increasing water intake to soften stools and reduce friction and pressure during bowel movements. If the fissure persists, causes severe pain, or significantly affects quality of life, surgical treatment may be considered, such as sphincterotomy.