disease
Pristyn Care Logo
Select City Sidebar Icon
Select City
Pristyn Care Logo
Select city location icon
Select City
fissure
phone icon in white color

Call Us

Book FREE Appointment

Anal Fissure: Symptoms, Causes, Types, Diagnosis, Prevention, Risks, and Treatment
Home  >  Proctology  > Anal Fissure

Anal Fissure: Symptoms, Causes, Types, Diagnosis, Prevention, Risks, and Treatment

1 in every 5 persons develops a fissure during their lifetime. But people are often too embarrassed to discuss the condition with their healthcare provider. To get timely anal fissure treatment, it is crucial to understand anal fissures and when it is time to seek professional help. Here, we intend to help you understand everything about anal fissure - what anal fissure is, how anal fissure can be diagnosed and treated, who are the best doctors for anal fissure treatment, and a lot more.

1 in every 5 persons develops a fissure during their lifetime. But people are often too embarrassed to discuss the condition with their healthcare ... provider. To get timely anal fissure treatment, it is crucial to understand anal fissures and when it is time to seek professional help. Here, we intend to help you understand everything about anal fissure - what anal fissure is, how anal fissure can be diagnosed and treated, who are the best doctors for anal fissure treatment, and a lot more. Read More

anup_soni_banner
💯 No Booking Fees
Book FREE Doctor Appointment
Close popup icon
cost calculator
Anup Soni - the voice of Pristyn Care pointing to download pristyncare mobile app
Name
i
i
Phone
+91
i
City
i
Call Us
Call icon

To confirm your details, please enter OTP sent to you on *

i

3 M+

Happy Patients

50+

Disease

200+

Hospitals

30+

Cities

Choose Your City

It help us to find the best doctors near you.

downArrow

Ahmedabad

Bangalore

Bhubaneswar

Chandigarh

Chennai

Coimbatore

Delhi

Hyderabad

Indore

Jaipur

Kochi

Kolkata

Kozhikode

Lucknow

Madurai

Mumbai

Patna

Pune

Raipur

Ranchi

Thiruvananthapuram

Vijayawada

Visakhapatnam

Delhi

Hyderabad

Pune

Mumbai

Bangalore

Best Doctors for Anal Fissure

Doctor Not Found
  • online dot green
    Dr. Vipin Nagpal - Anal Fissure Treatment Specialist in Pristyn Care Elantis Hospital, Lajpat Nagar, Delhi, over 31+  Years Experience

    Dr. Vipin Nagpal

    MBBS, MS-General Surgery
    31+ Yrs.Exp.

    4.5/5

    31+ Years Experience

    location icon Pristyn Care Elantis Hospital, Lajpat Nagar, Delhi
    Call Us
    080-6542-3711
  • online dot green
    Dr. Rakesh Shivhare - Anal Fissure Treatment Specialist in Opp.Badwani Plaza, Manorama Ganj, Old Palasia, Indore, Madhya Pradesh 452003, over 30+  Years Experience

    Dr. Rakesh Shivhare

    MBBS, MS(GI & General Surgeon)
    30+ Yrs.Exp.

    5.0/5

    30+ Years Experience

    location icon Opp.Badwani Plaza, Manorama Ganj, Old Palasia, Indore, Madhya Pradesh 452003
    Call Us
    080-6542-3720
  • online dot green
    Dr. Apoorv Shrivastava - Anal Fissure Treatment Specialist in Pristyn Care Eminent Hospital 6/1 Opp. Barwani Plaza,  Manorama Ganj, Old Palasia, Indore - 452018, over 25+  Years Experience

    Dr. Apoorv Shrivastava

    MBBS, DNB-General Surgery
    25+ Yrs.Exp.

    4.5/5

    25+ Years Experience

    location icon Pristyn Care Eminent Hospital 6/1 Opp. Barwani Plaza, Manorama Ganj, Old Palasia, Indore - 452018
    Call Us
    080-6542-3720
  • About TreatmentCostOur DoctorsInsuranceRecovery
    What Is Anal Fissure?
    How Common Is Anal Fissure?
    Types of Anal Fissure
    Symptoms of Anal Fissure
    Causes of Anal Fissure
    Risk Factors for Anal Fissure
    Risks & Complications
    Treatment of Anal Fissure
    Risks and Complications of Untreated Anal Fissure
    Prevention of Anal Fissure

    What Is Anal Fissure?

    An anal fissure is a small tear or crack in the lining of the anus, the opening through which stool leaves the body. The condition commonly occurs when passing hard, large, or dry stools, leading to pain and bleeding during bowel movements.

    Anal fissures can affect people of all ages, including infants, children, and adults. While many fissures heal with conservative treatment and lifestyle modifications, some may become chronic and require medical or surgical intervention.

    The condition can significantly impact daily life due to pain, discomfort, and fear of bowel movements. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent complications and promote faster healing.

    How Common Is Anal Fissure?

    Anal fissures are among the most common anorectal conditions worldwide.

    Some important facts about anal fissures include:

    • Anal fissures affect millions of people globally every year.
    • They are one of the most frequent causes of rectal pain and bleeding.
    • The condition can occur in both men and women equally.
    • Young adults and middle-aged individuals are most commonly affected.
    • Chronic constipation is the leading cause of anal fissures.
    • Infants may also develop fissures due to passing hard stools.
    • Many people mistake fissures for hemorrhoids because of similar symptoms.

    Most acute fissures heal within a few weeks when treated appropriately.

    Types of Anal Fissure

    Anal fissures are generally classified based on their duration and severity.

    1. Acute Anal Fissure

    An acute fissure is a newly developed tear that usually heals within 6 weeks with conservative treatment. The tear is often shallow and causes pain during bowel movements.

    2. Chronic Anal Fissure

    A fissure lasting longer than 6 weeks is considered chronic. Chronic fissures are typically deeper and may develop scar tissue or a skin tag near the anal opening.

    3. Primary Anal Fissure

    Primary fissures occur due to local trauma, usually from constipation, hard stools, or excessive straining.

    4. Secondary Anal Fissure

    Secondary fissures develop due to underlying medical conditions such as:

    • Crohn’s disease
    • Ulcerative colitis
    • Tuberculosis
    • HIV infection
    • Anal cancer
    • Sexually transmitted infections

    Symptoms of Anal Fissure

    The symptoms of an anal fissure can range from mild discomfort to severe pain.

    Common Symptoms of Anal Fissure

    • Sharp pain during bowel movements
    • Burning sensation after passing stool
    • Bright red blood on toilet paper or stool
    • Visible crack or tear near the anus
    • Itching around the anal area
    • Irritation and discomfort
    • Pain lasting for several minutes or hours after bowel movements

    Symptoms of Chronic Anal Fissure

    • Persistent anal pain
    • Recurrent bleeding
    • Skin tag near the fissure
    • Muscle spasm around the anus
    • Difficulty passing stool due to fear of pain

    Medical evaluation is recommended if symptoms persist or recur frequently

    Causes of Anal Fissure

    An anal fissure develops when the delicate lining of the anal canal becomes stretched or injured.

    Common Causes of Anal Fissure

    Chronic Constipation – Passing hard or large stools can tear the anal lining.

    Straining During Bowel Movements- Excessive pressure during defecation increases the risk of tissue injury.

    Chronic Diarrhea – Frequent bowel movements can irritate and damage anal tissues.

    Childbirth- Women may develop fissures during or after vaginal delivery due to increased pressure and tissue stretching.

    Anal Trauma- Injury from medical procedures or other trauma can lead to fissure formation.

    Inflammatory Bowel Disease- Conditions such as Crohn’s disease can increase the risk of fissures.

    Tight Anal Sphincter Muscles- Increased muscle tension around the anus can reduce blood flow and delay healing.

    Risk Factors for Anal Fissure

    Several factors increase the likelihood of developing an anal fissure.

    Constipation- Frequent constipation is the most significant risk factor.

    Low-Fiber Diet- Insufficient fiber intake can lead to hard stools and difficult bowel movements.

    Dehydration- Inadequate fluid intake contributes to constipation.

    Sedentary Lifestyle- Lack of physical activity can affect digestive health and bowel regularity.

    Pregnancy and Childbirth- Women are more susceptible during and after pregnancy.

    Chronic Diarrhea- Repeated irritation of anal tissues increases the risk of tearing.

    Inflammatory Bowel Diseases- Digestive disorders can make anal tissues more vulnerable to injury.

    Previous Anal Fissure- Individuals who have had fissures before may be at increased risk of recurrence.

    Diagnosis of Anal Fissure

    Doctors usually diagnose anal fissures through medical history and physical examination.

    Physical Examination

    The doctor may:

    • Inspect the anal area for visible tears
    • Assess swelling, irritation, or skin tags
    • Evaluate tenderness around the fissure

    Anoscopy

    A small instrument called an anoscope may be used to examine the anal canal.

    Sigmoidoscopy

    This procedure helps evaluate the lower colon and rectum if symptoms suggest another underlying condition.

    Colonoscopy

    A colonoscopy may be recommended in older adults, patients with persistent bleeding, or when inflammatory bowel disease is suspected.

    Additional Tests

    Further investigations may be needed if the fissure appears atypical or recurrent.

    Treatment of Anal Fissure

    Treatment focuses on relieving pain, promoting healing, and preventing recurrence.

    Lifestyle and Dietary Changes

    Doctors often recommend:

    • Increasing dietary fiber intake
    • Drinking plenty of water
    • Regular physical activity
    • Avoiding straining during bowel movements

    Medications

    Conservative treatment may include:

    • Stool softeners
    • Fiber supplements
    • Pain-relieving medications
    • Topical anesthetic creams
    • Nitroglycerin ointment
    • Calcium channel blocker creams

    These treatments help improve blood flow and reduce anal sphincter spasms.

    Sitz Baths

    Sitting in warm water several times daily can reduce pain and promote healing.

    Botulinum Toxin (Botox) Injection

    Botox may be injected into the anal sphincter muscle to reduce spasm and allow healing in chronic fissures.

    Surgical Treatment

    Surgery may be recommended for chronic fissures that do not respond to conservative treatment.

    Lateral Internal Sphincterotomy (LIS)

    LIS is considered the gold-standard surgical treatment for chronic anal fissures. The procedure involves making a small incision in the internal anal sphincter to reduce pressure and improve healing.

    Benefits include:

    • High success rate
    • Long-term symptom relief
    • Reduced recurrence risk
    • Faster healing

    Risks and Complications of Untreated Anal Fissure

    Ignoring an anal fissure can lead to several complications.

    Chronic Anal Fissure- Acute fissures may progress into chronic fissures if left untreated.

    Persistent Pain- Ongoing pain can interfere with daily activities and quality of life.

    Recurrent Bleeding- Repeated bleeding may occur with every bowel movement.

    Anal Sphincter Spasm- Muscle spasms can worsen pain and delay healing.

    Infection- Rarely, persistent fissures may become infected.

    Fissure Recurrence- Untreated fissures are more likely to recur repeatedly.

    Prevention of Anal Fissure

    Although not all fissures can be prevented, certain measures can significantly reduce risk.

    Eat a High-Fiber Diet- Consume fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes to maintain soft stools.

    Stay Hydrated- Adequate fluid intake helps prevent constipation.

    Exercise Regularly- Physical activity promotes healthy digestion and bowel function.

    Avoid Straining- Do not force bowel movements or spend excessive time on the toilet.

    Treat Constipation Promptly- Managing constipation early reduces pressure on the anal canal.

    Maintain Healthy Bowel Habits- Respond to the urge to pass stool without delay.

    Practice Good Anal Hygiene- Gentle cleaning can reduce irritation and discomfort.

    💯 No Booking Fees
    Consult with Our Expert Doctors for FREE!
    Close popup icon
    cost calculator
    Name
    i
    i
    Phone
    +91
    i
    City
    i
    Call Us
    Call icon

    To confirm your details, please enter OTP sent to you on *

    i

    FAQs of Anal Fissure Treatment

    What is an anal fissure?

    An anal fissure is a small tear in the lining of the anus that causes pain and bleeding during bowel movements.

    What is the most common cause of an anal fissure?

    Chronic constipation and passing hard stools are the most common causes.

    Can an anal fissure heal on its own?

    Many acute fissures heal naturally with proper diet, hydration, and conservative treatment.

    How long does an anal fissure take to heal?

    Most acute fissures heal within a few weeks, while chronic fissures may require medical or surgical treatment.

    Is bleeding from an anal fissure normal?

    Yes. Bright red blood during bowel movements is a common symptom.

    When is surgery needed for an anal fissure?

    Surgery is usually recommended for chronic fissures that fail to heal with medications and lifestyle changes.

    How do anal fissures look like?

    Usually, anal fissures are small tears or cuts in the lining of the anus. An acute anal fissure looks like a fresh tear and a chronic anal fissure looks like a deep tear. Chronic anal fissures may have internal or external fleshy growths.

    Is anal fissure dangerous

    Anal fissures are usually not dangerous, but if left untreated they can cause persistent pain, bleeding, recurrent tears, and may become chronic, requiring medical treatment or surgery.

    What to eat if you have fissure

    If you have an anal fissure, eat a high-fiber diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and drink adequate water to keep stools soft and reduce strain during bowel movements.

    Can fissure come back after surgery

    Yes, an anal fissure can recur after surgery, especially if constipation, hard stools, chronic diarrhea, or excessive straining continue, though the risk is generally low when proper bowel habits are maintained.

    ×
    Redirecting to Payment Link, please do not close the browser...

    Avail FREE Doctor Consultation

    cross icon in white color
    Simplifying Surgery Experience

    Consult with our expert surgeon for more than 50+ diseases

    Next Steps
    call icon

    Once you share your details, our care coordinator will get in touch with you.

    customer care icon

    The coordinator will understand your symptoms and health condition in detail.

    doctor icon

    Your consultation will be scheduled at the earliest.

    3M +

    Happy Patients

    150 +

    Clinics

    30 +

    Cities

    or

    3M +

    Happy Patients

    150 +

    Clinics

    30 +

    Cities

    120Cr—Patient Savings Delivered

    120Cr—Patient Savings Delivered

    so patients focus on recovery, not bills.

    Complete Transparency

    Complete Transparency

    No hidden charges or surprise bills

    End-to-End Insurance Handling

    End-to-End Insurance Handling

    Complete insurance processing support

    Up to 20% Savings on Every Surgery

    Up to 20% Savings on Every Surgery

    powered by smarter insurance handling

    Easy EMI Options

    Easy EMI Options

    Flexible payment plans available

    120Cr—Patient Savings Delivered

    120Cr—Patient Savings Delivered

    so patients focus on recovery, not bills.

    Complete Transparency

    Complete Transparency

    No hidden charges or surprise bills

    Thanks for booking!

    cross icon in white color
    Your Form has been submitted successfully.

    Our care coordinator will call you shortly.


    Get much more with Pristyn Care App

    Book covid vaccine slot icon Calendar icon

    Book Slot for Covid Precaution Dose

    Vaccination certificate icon Certificate icon

    Access/Share your and family’s Vaccination Certificate anytime

    Health account icon Create health account icon

    Create your Ayushman Bharat health account

    Appointment With

    cross icon in white color
    Consultation With Expert Doctors
    Pristyncare's doctor portrait image
    location icon
    Patient Detail
    i
    i
    i
    i
    Proctology
    ","
    Pilonidal Sinus
    ","
    Piles
    ","
    Rectal Prolapse
    ","
    Fissure
    ","
    Fistula
    ","
    Fecal Incontinence
    ","
    Constipation
    ","
    Hemorrhoids
    ","
    Laparoscopy
    ","
    Umbilical Hernia
    ","
    Hydrocele
    ","
    Inguinal Hernia
    ","
    Incisional Hernia
    ","
    Appendicitis
    ","
    Gallstone
    ","
    Hernia
    ","
    Achalasia Cardia
    ","
    Acid Reflux Surgery
    ","
    Large Intestine
    ","
    Indirect Hernia
    ","
    Small Intestine
    ","
    Colonoscopy
    ","
    Gastric Bypass Surgery
    ","
    Gynaecology
    ","
    Pain During Intercourse
    ","
    Vaginoplasty
    ","
    Labiaplasty
    ","
    Vaginal Discharge
    ","
    Laser Vaginal Tightening
    ","
    Vaginal Dryness
    ","
    Ovarian Cyst
    ","
    Hysterectomy
    ","
    Hymenoplasty
    ","
    Clitoral Hoodoplasty
    ","
    Abortion
    ","
    Hysteroscopy
    ","
    Pap Smear
    ","
    Vaginal Rejuvenation
    ","
    Ectopic Pregnancy
    ","
    Laser Vaginal Rejuvenation
    ","
    Vaginal Recurrent Infection
    ","
    Pelvic Pain
    ","
    Female Urinary Problems
    ","
    Lichen Sclerosus
    ","
    Menstrual Disorders
    ","
    Preconception Care
    ","
    Uterine Fibroid
    ","
    Pcos Pcod
    ","
    Pregnancy Care
    ","
    Medical Termination Of Pregnancy
    ","
    Laser Vaginal Bleaching
    ","
    Anal Bleaching
    ","
    Vaginal Wart
    ","
    Molar Pregnancy
    ","
    Bartholin Cyst
    ","
    Miscarriage
    ","
    Endometriosis
    ","
    Adenomyosis
    ","
    Myomectomy
    ","
    Dilation And Evacuation (D&E)
    ","
    Polypectomy
    ","
    ENT
    ","
    Turbinate Reduction
    ","
    Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty
    ","
    Adenoidectomy
    ","
    Myringotomy
    ","
    Microlaryngeal
    ","
    Mastoidectomy
    ","
    Tongue Base Reduction
    ","
    Tonsils Removal
    ","
    Deviated Nasal Septum
    ","
    Eardrum Surgery
    ","
    Sinus Surgery
    ","
    Thyroidectomy
    ","
    Tonsillectomy
    ","
    Ear Surgery
    ","
    Sinusitis
    ","
    Tympanoplasty
    ","
    Fess Surgery
    ","
    Stapedectomy
    ","
    Septoplasty
    ","
    Tonsillitis
    ","
    Adenoids
    ","
    Hearing Problem
    ","
    Thyroid Infection
    ","
    Chronic Sinusitis
    ","
    Recurrent Sinusitis
    ","
    Subacute Sinusitis
    ","
    Mastoiditis
    ","
    Parotidectomy
    ","
    Nose Surgery
    ","
    Vocal Cord Polyps
    ","
    Adenotonsillectomy
    ","
    Otitis Media
    ","
    Nasal Polyps
    ","
    Turbinoplasty
    ","
    Ear Infection
    ","
    Ear Hole
    ","
    Throat Infection
    ","
    Middle Ear Perforation
    ","
    Urology
    ","
    Urinary Tract Infection
    ","
    Urinary Incontinence
    ","
    Erectile Dysfunction
    ","
    Urethral Stricture
    ","
    Stress Urinary Incontinence
    ","
    Circumcision
    ","
    Kidney Stones
    ","
    Male Urinary Tract Infection
    ","
    Prostate Enlargement
    ","
    Phimosis
    ","
    Paraphimosis
    ","
    Foreskin Infection
    ","
    Balanoposthitis
    ","
    Balanitis
    ","
    Frenuloplasty
    ","
    Cystoscopy
    ","
    Cystolithotripsy
    ","
    DJ Stent
    ","
    cystolithotomy
    ","
    Urethral Stricture
    ","
    pyeloplasty
    ","
    nephrostomy
    ","
    Corn Removal
    ","
    Vasectomy
    ","
    Toenail treatment
    ","
    Testicular Torsion
    ","
    Epididymal Cyst
    ","
    Vascular
    ","
    Varicose Veins
    ","
    Varicocele
    ","
    Diabetic Foot Ulcer
    ","
    AV Fistula For Dialysis
    ","
    Deep Vein Thrombosis
    ","
    Spider Veins
    ","
    Aesthetics
    ","
    Gynecomastia
    ","
    Liposuction
    ","
    Lipoma
    ","
    Sebaceous Cyst
    ","
    Breast Lift
    ","
    Rhinoplasty
    ","
    Breast Reduction
    ","
    Breast Augmentation
    ","
    Breast Lump
    ","
    Hair Loss
    ","
    Breast Surgery
    ","
    Axillary Breast
    ","
    Abdominoplasty
    ","
    Double Chin
    ","
    Buccal Fat
    ","
    Earlobe Repair
    ","
    Blepharoplasty
    ","
    Hair Fall PRP
    ","
    Orthopedics
    ","
    Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
    ","
    Knee Replacement
    ","
    Spine Surgery
    ","
    Hip Replacement
    ","
    Arthroscopy
    ","
    ACL Tear
    ","
    Rotator Cuff Repair
    ","
    Bankart Surgery
    ","
    Bankart Repair
    ","
    Meniscus Repair Surgery
    ","
    Shoulder Replacement Surgery
    ","
    Discectomy
    ","
    Laminectomy
    ","
    Acdf Surgery
    ","
    Spinal Fusion
    ","
    Ligament Injury
    ","
    Knee Arthroscopy
    ","
    Shoulder Arthroscopy
    ","
    Femur Fracture
    ","
    Ophthalmology
    ","
    Lasik
    ","
    Cataract
    ","
    Squint Surgery
    ","
    Glaucoma Surgery
    ","
    Retinal Detachment Surgery
    ","
    Diabetic Retinopathy Treatment
    ","
    Intravitreal Injections
    ","
    Vitrectomy
    ","
    Monofocal Lens
    ","
    Multifocal Lens
    ","
    Toric Lens
    ","
    PRK Lasik
    ","
    Smile Lasik Surgery
    ","
    Femto Lasik Surgery
    ","
    ICL Surgery
    ","
    Macular Edema
    ","
    Retinal Surgery
    ","
    Contoura Vision
    ","
    Phaco Surgery
    ","
    Pterygium
    ","
    Dentistry
    ","
    Teeth Alignment (Fix)
    ","
    Dental Others
    ","
    Crossbite Teeth
    ","
    Overbite Teeth
    ","
    Openbite Teeth
    ","
    Weight Loss
    ","
    Bariatric Surgery
    ","
    SPATZ Intragastric Balloon
    ","
    Intragastric Balloon
    ","
    Weight Loss Surgery
    ","
    Weight Loss
    ","
    Dermatology
    ","
    Scar Removal
    ","
    Beard Transplant
    ","
    Face Threadlift
    ","
    Botox
    ","
    Derma Fillers
    ","
    Vampire Facial with Dermaroller
    ","
    Hair Transplant
    ","
    Hair Reduction
    ","
    Fat Loss
    ","
    Allergan for Double Chin
    ","
    Allergan for Arms
    ","
    Allergan for Underarm Fat
    ","
    Allergan for Tummy
    ","
    Allergan for Inner Thigh
    ","
    Allergan for Outer Thigh
    ","
    Anti Aging
    ","
    Uneven Skin Tone
    ","
    Acne & Scar
    ","
    Pigmentation
    ","
    Tattoo removal
    ","
    Hair Treatment
    ","
    Vitiligo for Face
    ","
    Roascea (Gold Toning laser)
    ","
    Dark Circle & Puffy Eyes
    ","
    Foundation full Face
    ","
    Acne Scar
    ","
    Fertility
    ","
    Male Infertility
    ","
    Female Infertility
    ","
    Ivf
    ","
    Iui
    ","
    Embryo Transfer
    ","
    ICSI Treatment
    ","
    Neurology
    ","
    Headache or migraine
    ","
    Neurology-Others
    ","
    Nephrology
    ","
    Chronic kidney disease (CKD) follow-up
    ","
    Pulmonology
    ","
    Chest pain or tightness
    ","
    Oncology
    ","
    Oncology
    ","
    General Physician
    ","
    General Physician-Others
    ","
    Diabetes
    "]" data-all-dropdown-items-arr="[]">
    i
    Select Appointment Date
    loading...
    Select Appointment Time
    Total Payable
    Reserve your slot and
    💯 No Booking Fees
    Anal Fissure Surgery Cost Estimate
    Close popup icon
    cost calculator
    Anup Soni - the voice of Pristyn Care pointing to download pristyncare mobile app
    Name
    i
    i
    Phone
    +91
    i
    City
    i
    Call Us
    Call icon

    To confirm your details, please enter OTP sent to you on *

    i