6 home remedies for anal fissure

Some people experience discomfort, pain, and bleeding while pooping. It might be due to an anal fissure, which is a small tear or cut in the lining of the anus. Anal fissure and constipation are usually connected. People who have constipation often experience anal fissures. Considering it is Constipation Awareness Month, let us tell you more about anal fissure and its causes. With the right knowledge and care, you can treat it effectively. Here’s everything you need to know about the problem and home remedies for anal fissure that can help you.

What are the causes of anal fissure?

Most cases of anal fissure occur in people who have constipation, as per the National Health Service. It is during that time that a large or very hard poo tears the anal canal’s lining. Constipation leads to difficulty and pressure in passing of stool, so this can also cause anal fissure, says Dr Tanvi Sawant, a gastroenterologist.

However, constipation is not the only cause of anal fissures, here are some more causes you must know about:

1. Diarrhea

It is not just constipation, but also diarrhea that can lead to anal fissure. When there is excessive passing of stool, it can tear the lining of the anal canal.

2. Anal trauma

If there is a physical injury to the anal caused by sexual activity or changes in the bowel functioning, it can cause anal fissure, says the expert.

3. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)

It is a term used for inflammatory conditions such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. They are characterised by chronic inflammation of the digestive tract. If a person is suffering from IBD, it can lead to anal fissure.

What are the home remedies for anal fissure?

Since the causes are mostly around bowel functioning, the remedies target your digestive system so that it works properly and doesn’t lead to such problems:

1. Fiber-rich diet

Incorporate high-fiber foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in your diet. Eating these foods may help soften the stool and ease bowel movements, suggests Dr Sawant. Papaya, orange, banana, beans, lentils and pumpkin seeds are some of the good options.

2. Hydration

Drink plenty of water to maintain soft stool and prevent constipation, which often happens due to dehydration. You can also eat foods that add to your overall water intake. So, include tomato, spinach, broccoli, cucumber and watermelon in your diet.

3. Warm sitz bath

Sit in warm water for 10 to 15 minutes to relieve pain and promote healing. You can add epsom salt to the warm water too, but do it only after getting a green light from your doctor.

4. Aloe vera

Aloe vera has moisturising and anti-inflammatory properties, so it is effective for anal fissure. Take the aloe vera gel and apply it after cleaning the anus area.

5. Coconut oil

Coconut oil is a great way to do away with skin dryness, making it a good home remedy for anal fissure. You can apply it on the affected area to naturally treat anal fissure.

6. Ghee

Eat ghee, which is a natural laxative and contains fatty acids that help with smoother bowel movements. It can help to deal with anal fissure, but don’t overeat ghee, as it can lead to weight gain.

You should also be mindful of straining during bowel movements, so take your time and allow stools to pass naturally, says the expert.

If home remedies don’t work for you, your doctor may prescribe medications to relax the anal sphincter. In some cases, injecting Botox into the anal sphincter can help to relax muscles and alleviate symptoms. There is also a surgical procedure, lateral internal sphincterotomy. It involves cutting a small portion of the anal sphincter muscle to promote healing.

But try to prevent anal fissure, as it is quite painful. So, eat a balanced diet that is rich in fiber to prevent constipation. You should also stay hydrated and engage in regular physical activity to promote bowel regularity.