Anal Fissure

Overview

Anal fissures are one of the most common causes of anal pain. They occur at any age and often in people who are frequently or severely constipated. The majority of anal fissures heal with self-care steps, but some may require medication or surgery to relax the anal sphincter muscle.

Should surgery be necessary, patients seeking treatment at Mayo Clinic benefit from the experience of highly skilled surgeons who can use less invasive techniques with smaller incisions and faster healing.

Diagnosis

Anal fissures may occur by themselves or may be symptoms of other disorders. Mayo Clinic doctors, with their experience and collaborative approach, are adept at assessing causes of fissures and recognizing coexisting conditions. Read more about anal fissure diagnosis.

Treatment Options

Acute anal fissures are initially treated with self-care procedures, while chronic fissures may require medication or surgery. Mayo Clinic doctors are continually assessing treatment strategies to offer the most effective options. Read more about anal fissure treatment options.

• Treatment in Arizona
• Treatment in Florida
• Treatment in Minnesota

About Anal Fissure

An anal fissure is a small tear in the lining of the anal canal, usually at the very back of the anal opening. The fissure can be acute (coming on suddenly and lasting a short time) or chronic (longer lasting), and may be a disorder on its own or a symptom of another disorder, such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis.

An anal fissure existing on its own (primary) is usually thought to be the result of straining — either from passing hard and large stool, or (more uncommon) from explosive diarrhea. It may also be due to the strain of childbirth.

Read more at
www.MayoClinic.com
A service of Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research