← All services · Planned surgery
Anal fissure treatment
anal fissure · anal tear · fissure treatment · anal fissure surgery
The doctor examines the tear at the anus and chooses treatment. Usually it is ointments, diet, and warm baths, sometimes a small procedure.
For pain and blood during or after going to the toilet.
⏱ Duration: the visit usually takes 15 to 30 minutes; with treatment, healing usually takes a few weeks
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Bowels. You usually do not need a bowel prep. If a procedure is planned, check with the clinic.
- Hygiene. Wash with warm water in the morning.
- Pain. If it hurts a lot, the doctor will examine you very gently. Tell them.
What to bring
- Your referral
- Your ID
- A list of your medicines
How it goes
- The doctor asks about your symptoms
- You lie on your side with your knees bent
- The doctor looks at the area around the anus
- If it is very painful, a deeper exam may be postponed
- The doctor prescribes treatment and explains how to use it
- If ointments do not help, an injection or small surgery may be offered
What you'll feel
- The exam may be painful. The doctor will be careful
- It may feel awkward. It is a routine topic for a doctor
Afterwards
- Eat more vegetables and fruit, and drink water. Your stool should be soft
- Warm sitz baths as your doctor advises
- Wash after using the toilet
- Use only the ointments and suppositories your doctor prescribed
Contact a doctor straight away if
- Heavy bleeding
- A fever over 38°C (100.4°F) with growing pain or swelling at the anus
Common questions
Will the fissure heal without surgery?
Often yes, with treatment and soft stools. Surgery is needed if treatment does not work.
Why does going to the toilet hurt so much?
The tear gets irritated, and the muscle tightens in a spasm. Treatment relieves the spasm and pain.