Anal Fissure in Indianapolis, IN
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Find a ProviderWhat is an anal fissure?
Anal fissures are defined as tiny rips or cuts in the tissue lining the anus. This thin, easily injured tissue, referred to as mucosa, that serves as the lining of the anus could rip for numerous reasons, such as the passing of large stools in a bowel movement. In most instances, anal fissures incite discomfort with bowel movements and may lead to blood in your stool. An anal fissure might also precipitate spasms in the muscle found at the end of the anus, known as the anal sphincter.
An anal fissure is categorized as chronic if the fissure has been present for 6 – 8 weeks or if it is a recurring concern. If you believe you may be suffering from anal fissures, contact Indianapolis Gastroenterology and Hepatology and schedule a consultation with a GI doctor. Our physicians provide specialized care for anal fissures in Indianapolis, IN.
What causes an anal fissure?
There are many commonplace reasons why an anal fissure might form. These causes can encompass many unique circumstances. These could include but are not limited to:
- Childbirth
- Anal intercourse
- Passing hard and/or large stools
- Constant diarrhea
- Straining during bowel movements
- Difficulty passing stool
There are also a number of factors that can increase your risk of developing an anal fissure. Said risk factors could include:
- Difficulty passing stool
- Anal intercourse
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
- The childbirth process
- STDs and HIV
- Age (anal fissures occur more commonly in infants and middle-aged adults)
What are the symptoms of an anal fissure?
Typical symptoms and signs of an anal fissure include (but are not limited to):
- Painful bowel movements
- Continuing pain after a bowel movement
- Bright red blood in the stool
- Visible cracking or tearing in the tissue around the anus
There is assistance available for anyone dealing with anal fissures in Indianapolis, IN. We urge you to consult with an Indianapolis Gastroenterology and Hepatology GI doctor if you experience more than one of the listed symptoms, or if any one of these symptoms becomes severe. Always contact a doctor should you see blood in your stool.
What are the possible complications of an anal fissure?
Anal fissures can cause considerable pain and discomfort, but they typically do not advance to anything more serious. Fissures are very common in adults. An example of some commonplace complications that may result from the presence of an anal fissure might include:
- Failure to heal
- Rifts in surrounding muscles
- Recurrence of the fissure
We encourage you to talk with a GI specialist at Indianapolis Gastroenterology and Hepatology in relation to any concerns you might have in regard to complications from your anal fissure.
What are the treatments for an anal fissure?
In many cases, an anal fissure will heal inside of three weeks with limited medical intervention. To allow for the healing of anal fissures, and to prevent them from returning, your gastroenterology doctor could suggest that you:
- Drink plenty of water
- Avoid foods that are known to cause constipation
- Eat a healthy diet high in fiber
Other treatments might include:
- Surgical intervention (less common)
- BOTOX® injections for relief from muscle spasms
- Medication to treat blood pressure for relaxation of the anal sphincter
- Topical ointments and creams to increase the flow of blood to the fissure, and for analgesic effects
We encourage you to speak with your gastroenterologist regarding the optimal treatment plan for you. Our practice is dedicated to ensuring that you receive the personalized care and relief you deserve.
You deserve relief
Anal fissures are uncomfortable and often difficult to live with. If you or a family member is in need of treatment for anal fissures in Indianapolis, IN, we can help. For help with your condition, get in touch with Indianapolis Gastroenterology and Hepatology to connect with a gastroenterology specialist that can help you get the relief you require to have normal bowel movements. Arrange for a consultation as soon as possible to get started.
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