Anal Fissure in Illinois
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Find a ProviderWhat is an anal fissure?
An anal fissure is defined as a small tear, or cut, in the tissue that lines the anus. The thin, delicate tissue, referred to as mucosa, serves as the lining of one's anus. It might tear for a number of reasons, with one being the passing of large stools in a bowel movement. In most instances, anal fissures create pain when passing stool and you'll see the appearance of blood in your stool. Anal fissures could also precipitate spasms in the muscle found at the end of the anus, known as the anal sphincter.
Anal fissures are classified as a chronic condition if you've had the fissure for 6 – 8 weeks, or if it is a commonly recurring issue. If you suspect you might have an anal fissure, get in touch with GI Alliance of Illinois and book an appointment with a gastroenterologist. Our physicians routinely provide individualized care for anal fissures in Chicago, IL, or Bloomington, IL.
What causes an anal fissure?
There are many factors that may lead to an anal fissure. Causes can include a number of varying things. They might include but are not limited to:
- Constant diarrhea
- Passing large and/or hard stools
- Difficulty passing stool
- Anal intercourse
- Childbirth
- Straining during bowel movements
In regard to an anal fissure, there are a number of factors that might elevate an individual’s risk. A few of these are also causes of this condition. These risk factors can include:
- Difficulty passing stool
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
- STDs and HIV
- Age (anal fissures occur in higher numbers in infants and middle-aged adults)
- Childbirth
- Anal intercourse
For additional information regarding the causes of an anal fissure, request an appointment with our GI providers at GI Alliance in Illinois.
What are the symptoms of an anal fissure?
Common symptoms of an anal fissure include but are not limited to:
- Uncomfortable bowel movements
- Visible cracking or tearing in the skin surrounding the anus
- Continuing pain after a bowel movement
- Fresh red blood in the stool
There is assistance available for anyone dealing with anal fissures in Illinois. You should contact a GI Alliance of Illinois provider if you are having more than one of the aforementioned symptoms, or if any of these symptoms become severe. Always contact a physician about blood in your stool.
What are the possible complications of an anal fissure?
Anal fissures can be very painful but they do not usually point to subsequential severe conditions. Fissures are very common in adults. A few common complications that come with having an anal fissure may include:
- Failure to heal
- Tear in the surrounding muscles
- Fissure recurrence
We encourage you to speak with your gastroenterology provider at GI Alliance of Illinois regarding any worries you might have in regard to complications from your anal fissure.
What are the treatments for an anal fissure?
Anal fissures will often heal on their own inside of three weeks. To allow for the healing of anal fissures, and in an effort to prevent their return, your gastroenterology specialist at GI Alliance of Illinois could suggest that you:
- Maintain a healthy diet with plenty of fiber
- Consume a substantial amount of water
- Avoid being constipated
Additional treatments could include:
- Topical ointments and creams to increase blood flow to the fissure, as well as for pain relief
- Medication to treat blood pressure to relax the anal sphincter
- BOTOX® injections for the relaxation of muscles/spasms
- Surgical intervention (less common)
Always talk to your GI provider in Illinois in regard to the optimal treatment options for you. Our practice is dedicated to ensuring that you are given the specific care and relief you need.
Relief you deserve
Anal fissures can be difficult to deal with. If you or a loved one is seeking treatment for anal fissures in Illinois, we can help. For professional support, contact GI Alliance of Illinois to get connected with a gastroenterology provider who will help you obtain the relief you need to have regular bowel movements. Book a consultation as soon as possible to begin the process.
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