An anal fissure is a small tear or cut in the skin around the anus, typically caused by trauma during bowel movements, especially when passing large or hard stools. It can be very painful and is often accompanied by bleeding. Fissures can be acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term), depending on their duration and severity.

Causes of Anal Fissures

• Constipation and Straining: The most common cause, especially when passing large or hard stools.
• Diarrhea: Frequent loose stools can irritate the anal area and lead to fissures.
• Childbirth: Vaginal delivery can cause trauma to the anal region, leading to fissures.
• Anal Intercourse: Can result in injury or trauma to the anal canal.
• Inflammatory Conditions: Such as Crohn's disease or other gastrointestinal disorders.
• Tight Sphincter: A tight or spastic anal sphincter can contribute to the development of fissures.

Symptoms of Anal Fissures

• Sharp Pain: Especially during or after bowel movements. The pain can last for several minutes to hours and is often described as severe.
• Bleeding: Bright red blood on toilet paper or in the toilet bowl after a bowel movement.
• Itching or Irritation: Around the anus.
• Visible Tear: A small cut or crack in the skin around the anus (visible on examination).
• Chronic Pain: In chronic cases, the pain can become more persistent and last longer, even outside of bowel movements.