Anal Fissure in New Orleans, LA
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Find a ProviderWhat is an anal fissure?
An anal fissure is defined as a tiny rip, or cut, in the tissue lining of one's anus. The mucosa, a paper-thin, easily damaged tissue, makes up the lining of one's anus and can tear due to several reasons including the passing of large stools during a bowel movement. In most instances, anal fissures incite pain during bowel movements and cause blood in the stool. Anal fissures can also lead to spasms in the muscle found at the end of the anus, known as the anal sphincter.
An anal fissure is categorized as chronic if you have had the fissure for 6 – 8 weeks, or if it is a recurring concern. If you think you could be suffering from anal fissures, contact a Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates location near you and request a consultation with a gastrointestinal specialist. Our providers commonly offer specialized treatment for anal fissures in New Orleans, LA.
What are the causes of an anal fissure?
There are several common causes of anal fissures. These causes can include a wide variety of circumstances which may include but are not limited to:
- Excessive pressure during bowel movements
- Difficulty passing stool
- Passing large and/or hard stools
- Chronic diarrhea
- The childbirth process
- Anal sex
Regarding anal fissures, there are also a few factors that might elevate a person's risk, several of which are also causes of the condition. Risk factors can include:
- Anal intercourse
- HIV and STDs
- Constipation
- Age (anal fissures occur more commonly in infants and middle-aged adults)
- Childbirth
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
What are the symptoms of an anal fissure?
Common symptoms and signs of anal fissures include but are not limited to:
- Lasting pain following a bowel movement
- Visible cracking or tearing in the tissue surrounding the anus
- Bright red blood in the stool
- Painful bowel movements
There is help for those dealing with anal fissures in New Orleans, LA. You should call a Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates GI specialist if you suffer from any combination of these symptoms, or if any one of these symptoms grows more worrisome. Always contact a provider if you notice blood in your stool.
What are the possible complications of an anal fissure?
Anal fissures can be very painful but generally don't progress to more serious conditions. Fissures are common in adults. Some frequent complications that may result from having an anal fissure might include:
- Inability to heal
- Tear in the surrounding muscles
- Recurrence of the fissure
We urge you to speak with a GI provider at a local Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates to discuss any concerns you might have about possible anal fissure complications.
What are the treatments for an anal fissure?
Anal fissures will typically heal on their own in less than three weeks. To allow the healing of anal fissures, and prevent their return, your gastroenterology provider could suggest that you:
- Drink plenty of water
- Eat a healthy diet high in fiber
- Avoid being constipated
Alternative treatment options can include:
- BOTOX® injections to relax muscle spasms
- Topical ointments and creams to increase blood flow to the fissure, as well as for relief of pain
- Blood pressure medication for relaxation of the anal sphincter
- Surgery (less common)
Relief you deserve
An anal fissure can be a struggle to deal with. If you or a loved one needs treatment for anal fissures in New Orleans, LA, we can help. For assistance with your condition, contact a Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates location near you to connect with a gastroenterologist who will help you obtain the relief you require to have normal bowel movements. Request an appointment today to begin the process.
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