A common anal disorder caused by an elongated ulcer or tear that extends upwards into the anal canal from the anal sphincter. A fissure may be caused by the passage of hard, dry faeces. There is usually pain during defaecation and the muscles of the anus may go into spasm. There may be a small amount of bright red blood on faeces or toilet paper. The tear often heals naturally over a few days. Treatment of recurrent or persistent fissures is by anal dilatation and a high-fibre diet, which helps soften the faeces. Surgery to remove the fissure is occasionally necessary.
Anal fissure |
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