What department should I go to for an anal fissure?

Written by Deng Heng
Colorectal Surgery
Updated on May 07, 2025
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Anal fissures should of course be treated by proctology specialists, as anal fissures are a common condition in proctology. They are small ulcers that form in the skin of the anal canal below the dentate line after it has been injured. The primary symptom is anal pain, characterized by periodic, tearing-like pain. The second symptom is rectal bleeding during bowel movements caused by wounds on the fissure. The third symptom is that due to the pain, patients might avoid defecating, leading to habitual constipation. Therefore, proctologists have a comprehensive understanding and good knowledge reserve about anal fissures, so it is recommended that patients with this condition consult the proctology department.

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Written by Chen Tian Jing
Colorectal Surgery
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Anal fissure: hot compress or cold compress?

During the acute phase of an anal fissure, patients can choose either hot or cold compresses. The clinical symptoms suitable for hot and cold therapy differ. Hot compresses primarily involve the use of herbal washes, where heat helps the medicated solution penetrate the local fissure, promoting healing and contraction of the mucous membrane. The principle behind cold compresses is that, during the acute phase, when the local fissure pain is particularly intense, cold compresses can reduce or alleviate the pain. Besides conservative hot or cold compress treatments, surgery can also be an option after repeated occurrences. The surgical method typically involves an endoscopic loosening procedure. (Use of specific medications should be under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Deng Heng
Colorectal Surgery
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The main causes of anal fissures

The main causes of anal fissure formation may be related to the following factors: long-term constipation and hard stools, which cause mechanical damage during defecation as the direct cause for most anal fissures. It is also related to anatomical defects. Due to the superficial layer of the external sphincter forming a weak area at the back of the anal canal, dry stools exert the greatest pressure on the weak area at the back of the anus, making it prone to tearing injuries. Additionally, infection of the anal sinuses can lead to inflammation of the anal canal, and spasms of the sphincter losing its soft characteristics is also a reason for the formation of anal fissures. Furthermore, hard and dry fecal masses passing through the anal canal can easily cause tearing injuries, possibly due to the smaller size of the patient's anus.

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Written by Deng Heng
Colorectal Surgery
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How to cure anal fissure bleeding

Anal fissures are a common anorectal disorder, primarily characterized by the formation of small ulcers due to skin lacerations below the dentate line. The main symptoms are bleeding and pain during defecation. Generally, the amount of bleeding is small, noticeable on toilet paper or with a trace of blood on stools. The primary principle of treatment is to address the spasms of the internal sphincter to facilitate the healing of the wound. Common treatment methods include anal dilation and surgical excision, with the overall objective being to alleviate sphincter spasms and promote wound healing. Only when the issue of the anal fissure is resolved will the bleeding gradually alleviate.

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Written by Xu Jun Hui
General Surgery
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How to treat hemorrhoids, bloody stool, and anal fissures?

Hemorrhoids and anal fissures are two different conditions. Generally, the early treatment for anal fissures is similar to that for early hemorrhoids, which is conservative treatment. This includes ensuring smooth bowel movements, preventing constipation, avoiding dry stools, preventing prolonged bowel movements, and avoiding sitting still for long periods. If the amount of bleeding is small, conservative treatment as mentioned above, along with the application of local medication around the anus, can control the symptoms. Regularly consume vegetables and dietary fiber. If there is severe bleeding from hemorrhoids or severe pain due to a large fissure in anal fissures, relevant examinations should be conducted. After ruling out other conditions, surgery may be necessary.

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Written by Li Xiao Jie
Internal Medicine
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Do anal fissures need treatment?

Anal fissures require treatment. If the patient has a very mild case, there is a possibility of self-healing, though this is not very likely. For initial cases, where the fissure is small, one could consider treatment methods such as Chinese herbal fumigation, topical medications, or potassium permanganate sitz baths, all of which can achieve therapeutic effects. If the patient suffers from recurrent long-term episodes, and the fissure is deep, surgical treatment may need to be considered. This condition falls under the category of proctologic diseases. Patients can visit the proctology department where a doctor will examine them and choose an appropriate surgical method. Complete recovery is possible, so there is no need to worry. To prevent this condition, it is important to maintain smooth bowel movements, ensure cleanliness in the affected area, and avoid infections.