For those who have experienced the agonizing pain of anal fissures, you know that you need the fastest relief possible from this tearing, burning sensation. These tiny tears can cause a big problem, and you need a treatment that begins to work immediately.

What are anal fissures? Fissures are small tears in the wall of the anal canal. They are extremely common – they happen to nearly everyone at some point – and they can affect individuals of all ages. Even infants frequently suffer from an anal fissure.

These small tears can be caused by the strain of an over sized bowel movement, by frequent diarrhea, or by constipation. Women are especially prone to anal fissures during childbirth. The problem is often compounded by the fact that they cause so much pain upon defecation; those who have fissures are often reluctant to have a bowel movement, and constipation can be a result.

How do I know if I have an anal fissure? When you have an anal fissure, you will most likely experience a sharp, burning pain during bowel movements. Urination can also be painful, and you may experience itching as well. Small droplets of blood in the toilet or on toilet paper are also an indication of anal fissures; in some cases, a small amount of yellowish pus may also be present.

Your doctor can easily diagnose this condition by a description of the symptoms or a visual exam.

How can I prevent anal fissures? Eating a diet rich in fiber and making sure to have daily bowel movements can help you to avoid this painful and inconvenient problem. Drink plenty of water and get adequate rest and exercise to keep yourself regular, and you will notice the difference in your bowel habits.

What is the best treatment for an anal fissure? Some people find a sitz bath (soaking in shallow water) several times a day to be helpful. Topical ointments are also used in treating the tears, and in extreme cases, surgery may be required. With any of these treatment methods, it can take several weeks for the fissure to heal completely.