Anal Fissure in San Antonio, TX
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Find a ProviderWhat is an anal fissure?
An anal fissure is defined as a tiny rip in the tissue lining the anus. The paper-thin, delicate tissue, referred to as mucosa, can tear due to numerous reasons, like passing large stools during a bowel movement. Most commonly, anal fissures cause pain with bowel movements and the appearance of blood in your stool. An anal fissure can also lead to contractions in the muscle at the end of the anus, referred to as the anal sphincter.
Anal fissures are categorized as chronic if you have had the fissure for 6 – 8 weeks, or if it is a recurring issue. If you suspect you may have a tear in your anus, contact your nearest San Antonio Gastroenterology Associates location and request a consultation with a gastrointestinal provider in San Antonio, TX.
What causes an anal fissure?
There are many common factors and situations that may cause anal fissures. These can include but are not limited to:
- Childbirth
- Difficulty passing stools
- Straining during bowel movements
- Passing hard and/or large stools
- Anal sex
- Persistent diarrhea
When it comes to anal fissures, there are also a few factors that can increase a person's risk. These risk factors can include:
- Constipation
- The childbirth process
- HIV and STDs
- Age (anal fissures occur more commonly in infants and middle-aged adults)
- Anal sex
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
What are the symptoms of an anal fissure?
Common symptoms and signs of an anal fissure include:
- Bright red blood in the stool
- Continuing discomfort after a bowel movement
- Painful bowel movements
- A visible crack or tear in the tissue surrounding the anus
There is help for anyone dealing with anal fissures in San Antonio, TX. You should contact your nearest San Antonio Gastroenterology Associates location if you are having any combination of these symptoms, or if they increase in severity. You should always contact a gastroenterologist if you see blood in your stool.
What are the possible complications of an anal fissure?
Anal fissures may be extremely uncomfortable but typically do not progress to a more severe condition. Fissures are very common in adults. A few typical complications that come with the presence of an anal fissure can include:
- Inability to heal
- Fissure recurrence
- Surrounding muscle tears
We urge you to speak with a gastrointestinal specialist at your nearest San Antonio Gastroenterology Associates location about any questions you may have in relation to complications from your anal fissure.
What are the treatments for anal fissures?
An anal fissure will usually heal on its own within three weeks. To allow the healing of anal fissures, and in an effort to prevent them from returning, your GI doctor may recommend that you:
- Avoid becoming constipated
- Eat a healthy, high-fiber diet
- Drink plenty of water
Additional treatment options might include:
- BOTOX® injections to relax muscle spasms
- Topical ointments and creams to increase blood flow to the fissure, and for analgesic effects
- Blood pressure medication to relax the anal sphincter
- Surgical intervention (less common)
We encourage you to consult with your GI physician regarding the best treatment options for you. Our providers are dedicated to ensuring that you receive the individualized care and relief you deserve.
You deserve relief
Anal fissures can be uncomfortable to live with. If you need treatment for anal fissures in San Antonio, TX, we are there for you. For assistance, contact your nearest San Antonio Gastroenterology Associates location to get connected with a GI specialist who will help you get the relief you need in order to have regular bowel movements. Request a consultation at your earliest convenience to get started.
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