Home Remedies and Herbs for Anal Fissure

Anal fissures are a tear in the lining of the lower rectal area. They can happen for many different reasons but rarely lead to more serious problems. ¹

What Causes Anal Fissures?

The causes of anal fissures are various. The most common ones are:

• Passing a large stool (having a large bowel movement)
• Constipation accompanied by trying to pass a large stool
• Frequent diarrhea
• Childbirth (this can cause some trauma to the anal canal in some women) ¹

Less common causes are:

• HIV
• Anal Cancer
• Herpes
• Tuberculosis
• Syphilis ⁴

What are some symptoms of Anal Fissures?

• Painful bowel movements
• Continued constipation
• Tears in the anal area from the above symptoms
• Bleeding from the anal area
• Itching of the anal area
• A visible crack in the skin around the anus

Anal Fissures Diagnosis

Anal fissures are diagnosed by a qualified doctor with a rectal exam. The physician will inspect the area visually and potentially with their fingers to check for tears in the anal area. While this is unpleasant, it is the best way to authenticate if the patient does indeed have anal fissures.²

Natural Medicinal Options for Anal Fissures

There are some natural options for alleviating the discomfort of anal fissures. While the list is small the potential benefits can lead to a great quality of life for the person suffering from anal fissures. They are:

• Flax Seed Oil: The patient can take this as an oral solution. The oil may help to soften stool and make bowel movements less painful
• Olive Oil: Similar to flax seed oil, this can be taken orally to help manage anal fissures. It potentially has the same effects as flax seed oil as well.
• Aloe Vera/Aloe Juice: These two remedies can be used topically. This means a patient would be able to apply them directly to the anal area to help facilitate healing of the anal fissures.³

Coping with Anal Fissures

Anal fissures can be managed easily for most patients with simple dietary changes. However, there may be patients who continue to suffer from anal fissures throughout their life. Once it is diagnosed, it can be managed very well by the patient and their physician. Adding natural options to a treatment regimen can be recommended by the doctor who is treating the patient.

Conclusion

Anal fissures are not comfortable for anyone. They can cause embarrassment and even feelings of fear. It is because anal fissures can cause bleeding that many people worry about them and if the bleeding becomes overwhelming a person should go see their doctor. While anal fissures are not a concern for the vast majority of people, it is important that anyone suffering from them be alert to their own body and seek help if needed. Natural remedies can be easily incorporated into the patient’s daily life and may help with the various symptoms of anal fissures. As with anything, consult a physician before changing or adding any treatment plan to combat anal fissures.

References

1. http://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/tc/anal-fissure-topic-overview
2. https://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/001130.htm
3. http://www.curesdecoded.com/conditions/Anal%20Fissure/263
4. http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/anal-fissure/symptoms-causes/dxc-20168232