Anal fissure is one of the most common problems in the community. This problem, which is known as “crack” or “fissure” among the public, can be understood and diagnosed by a simple examination procedure performed by the doctor. We can say that the crack occurring in the breech area starts on the outside and progresses inwards. The fissure or crack is usually around 12 o’clock or 6 o’clock.
Of course, a fissure in the tissue also causes pain. Pain usually occurs after defecation or the intensity of the pain increases after defecation. This is because the anus is enlarged during defecation. We will talk about what kind of treatment is applied in case of cracks in the breech tissue. At the same time, we will talk about what kind of a picture emerges if it is not treated. However, let us first consider with which symptoms the fissure in this tissue manifests itself.
Anal fissure (breech fracture) symptoms
When an anal fissure problem occurs in patients, the symptoms may change depending on the severity of this problem. Especially after constipation, there is a symptom of pain and bleeding in the rectal area following defecation. Because the most common reason for patients to go to the doctor is pain and bleeding complaints.
After the tear occurs, an increase in pain and bleeding complaints occurs every time the patients go to the toilet. In fact, sometimes patients do not want to go to the toilet due to pain complaints. This situation leads to constipation and a vicious circle occurs. Because constipation can be one of the reasons for increased fissures. The pain experienced by the patients due to anus fracture can last a few minutes or may extend up to half an hour.
We can give the following examples of the symptoms that occur with all these:
- The feeling of removing glass pieces during defecation
- Rectal swelling
- Itching and irritation in the area where the fissure occurred
- Blood stain on underwear due to slight blood leakage
- Difficulty defecation
Even if only one of these symptoms occurs, it will be useful to make an appointment with your doctor. In this way, the most appropriate treatment options are evaluated to get rid of this problem, which also impairs the quality of daily life. In addition, the symptoms listed above can sometimes be symptoms of different ailments such as hemorrhoids, rectal abscess, rectal warts, rectal cancer or rectal prolapse. Therefore, it is of great importance to consult a doctor as soon as possible, in terms of understanding the cause of the symptoms and early diagnosis.
Causes of Anal Fissure (Anal Fracture)
In the community, anal fissure is generally seen between the ages of 20 and 40. However, it is possible to be seen outside this age range. Considering the reasons for the formation of anal fissure, let’s cite the most common elements in a short list.
- Prolonged constipation or diarrhea
- Crohn’s disease
- Ulcerative colitis disease
- Having a vaginal delivery
- Feces that is too hard
- Insufficient fluid intake
Along with all these, breech cracks can occur without any reason. However, it is determined that the patients had difficulty in defecation for a while before the crack formation. We can say that this situation triggers the formation of cracks in the tissue. Sometimes, a crack can occur in a single feces. Generally, delaying the need for a toilet causes stools to remain in the large intestine for a long time. In this case, the feces becomes hard and naturally it can cause anus rupture during defecation.
We can state that some procedures applied to diagnose or treat various diseases also cause the problem in question. Interventions such as placing the rectal thermometer, applying a colonoscopy to the patient or performing an enema can cause trauma in the anus region and therefore this problem may occur during or after the procedure. The possibility of rectal trauma is much higher, especially if preventive measures are not applied.
Anal Fissure (Anal Fracture) Surgery
When the patient is diagnosed with anal fissure, it is also wondered how the treatment is carried out. If surgical intervention is required, the muscle working involuntarily in the anal canal is cut. This muscle is called “lateral internal sphincter”. It should be underlined that the surgery should be done carefully.
This surgical intervention, which is performed without taking it seriously, may cause stool incontinence, farting or anal fistula problems in the future. Of course, the surgery is performed under anesthesia and therefore the patient is prevented from experiencing any pain or pain. In order to have a smooth recovery period, the medications prescribed by the doctor must be used regularly after the operation. At the same time, it is important to pay maximum attention to hygiene conditions against the risk of infection.
How is Anal Fissure (Anal Fracture) Treatment?
Let us state that the first step of this treatment is to eliminate constipation. Therefore, the patient should switch to a healthy and balanced diet. In order for the current anal fissure level not to progress, it is necessary to consume healthy foods such as whole grain bread, dried legumes, fruits and vegetables. In addition, attention should be paid to the daily consumption of 2.5 liters of water.
Sitting baths with hot water, the use of topical cream or the use of ointments are among the treatment options. If the patient has a pain complaint, it may be possible to eliminate this complaint by using pain medication. However, it is also very important not to use pain relievers indiscriminately and to use the drugs prescribed by the doctor in the dosage indicated. Of course, these methods are effective in rectal cracks that have not yet acquired a chronic dimension. Surgical intervention may be preferred in cases that have been ongoing for a long time, have become chronic, and cannot be successful with other treatments.
We cannot say that surgical intervention is essential for every patient. However, it should not be forgotten that sometimes this intervention can cease to be an option and become a necessity in order to eliminate the patient’s complaints. After the surgical intervention, it is possible for the patient to return to his daily life only between 24 and 48 hours.
Why Does Rectal Discharge?
Sometimes, when a breech fracture occurs, bleeding can occur, and this can be considered as discharge by patients. Sometimes the liquid thought to be discharged can be pus. This is usually experienced when inflammation occurs in the crack. The pus can be transmitted to underwear during defecation or sitting. Infection is a risky situation and in case of rectal discharge, a doctor should be consulted immediately, considering the risk of infection.
What Happens If Fissure Is Not Treated?
Sometimes patients are aware of the problem of breech fracture, but may not take it seriously. In such cases, the pain complaint may increase and the crack may progress towards the inner part. Of course, mild tears can also heal spontaneously, but there may be a risk of infection when there are advanced tears at the bleeding level.
At the same time, the fact that this problem is experienced frequently opens the door for it to become chronic. Therefore, it may be possible to encounter more serious problems in the future and to require surgical intervention. All this should be considered by patients. Cracks must be treated. You can write your questions about the subject in the comment section.