Anal Fissure in Denver, CO
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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 lining one's anus. The thin, delicate tissue, referred to as mucosa, that makes up the lining of one's anus can get tears in it because of many reasons such as the passing of large stools during a bowel movement. Typically, anal fissures incite pain during bowel movements and the presence of blood in your stool. An anal fissure might also lead to spasms in the muscle at the end of the anus, known as the anal sphincter.
Anal fissures are classified as chronic if they have been present for 6 – 8 weeks, or if they are a commonly recurring concern. If you think you might be suffering from an anal fissure, reach out to Colorado Gastroenterology and book a meeting with a gastrointestinal specialist. Our physicians commonly provide specialized treatment for anal fissures in Denver, CO.
What are the causes of an anal fissure?
There are a number of commonplace factors that may cause anal fissures. Causes could include many different circumstances. They can include but are not limited to:
- Childbirth
- Constipation
- Constant diarrhea
- Anal sex
- Excessive pressure during bowel movements
- Passing large and/or hard stools
In regard to an anal fissure, there are also a few factors that could increase an individual’s risk. Such risk factors could include:
- STDs and HIV
- Constipation
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
- The childbirth process
- Age (anal fissures occur with greater frequency in infants and middle-aged adults)
- Anal sex
What are some symptoms of an anal fissure?
Common symptoms and signs of an anal fissure include but are not limited to:
- Pain during bowel movements
- Bright red blood in the stool
- Continuing discomfort following a bowel movement
- Visible cracking or tearing in the skin around the anus
There is help for anyone dealing with anal fissures in Denver, CO. We urge you to call a Colorado Gastroenterology GI doctor if you suffer from any combination of these symptoms, or if any one of these symptoms grows more worrisome. You should always contact a physician about blood in your stool.
What are the possible complications of an anal fissure?
Anal fissures can be excessively uncomfortable but don't usually lead to subsequential dangerous conditions. Fissures are common in adults. A few common complications that come with having an anal fissure might include:
- Fissure recurrence
- Failure to heal
- Tear in the surrounding muscles
We urge you to speak with a GI doctor at Colorado Gastroenterology relating to any concerns you may have regarding complications from an anal fissure.
What are the treatments for an anal fissure?
Anal fissures will usually heal on their own inside of three weeks. To allow for anal fissures to heal, and in an effort to prevent their return, your gastroenterologist could recommend that you:
- Try not to become constipated
- Drink a sufficient amount of water
- Eat a healthy diet high in fiber
Other treatment options could include:
- Topical creams and ointments to encourage supplemental blood flow to the fissure, as well as for pain relief
- Surgery (less common)
- BOTOX® injections for relief from muscle spasms
- Medication to treat blood pressure to relax the anal sphincter
You should speak with your gastroenterology physician about the best treatment options for you. Our office is determined to ensure that you receive the individualized treatment and relief you deserve.
You deserve relief
An anal fissure can be difficult to live with. If you or a family member is in need of treatment for anal fissures in Denver, CO, help is available. For professional support, get in touch with Colorado Gastroenterology to connect with a GI specialist that can help you obtain the relief you require to have normal bowel movements. Request a consultation as soon as possible to begin the process.
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