Anal fissures are tiny tears in the anal lining that are frequently brought on by straining during bowel movements, passing large stools, or conditions like chronic constipation. These fissures can cause severe pain, bleeding, and discomfort during and after bowel movements. While the symptoms can be distressing, most anal fissures can be treated effectively with home remedies and self-care techniques. In this blog, we’ll discuss some simple yet effective methods for anal fissure treatment at home and how to achieve quick relief through natural remedies.
An anal fissure occurs when the delicate skin around the anus tears due to excessive strain, often during bowel movements. The pain and discomfort caused by fissures can be intense, especially during or immediately after passing stool. Although they can affect anyone, they are more common in people with chronic constipation, diarrhea, or conditions like Crohn’s disease.
The good news is that most fissures are manageable with simple home remedies for anal fissures. These remedies focus on softening stools, reducing inflammation, and promoting healing, allowing you to return to your daily routine without pain.
One of the most important factors in healing an anal fissure is ensuring that your bowel movements are soft and regular. Hard stools and straining are major culprits behind the formation and worsening of fissures. To avoid this, increasing your fiber intake is essential.
Fiber helps to soften stools and make them easier to pass, reducing the pressure on the anal muscles. Natural cures for anal fissures often begin with dietary changes, and fiber is at the forefront. Include the following fiber-rich foods in your daily diet:
If you find it difficult to get enough fiber from food alone, you can consider using fiber supplements like psyllium husk. Ensure you drink plenty of water alongside fiber to avoid worsening constipation.
Dehydration can lead to harder stools, making bowel movements more difficult and painful. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day is essential for keeping stools soft, which is critical for fissure treatment at home. Water helps fiber do its job, making it easier for your digestive system to function smoothly.
Aim to drink at least 8-10 glasses of water daily to ensure your body stays hydrated and your digestive system operates optimally. Herbal teas and clear soups can also contribute to your daily fluid intake.
One of the most soothing and effective natural remedies for anal fissures is taking regular warm sitz baths. A sitz bath involves sitting in a tub filled with warm water that covers the buttocks and hips, which helps to relax the anal muscles, reduce pain, and promote healing. Warm water also helps improve blood circulation to the area, speeding up recovery.
To take a sitz bath, follow these steps:
Adding Epsom salts to the water can enhance the soothing effects of the sitz bath.
Straining is one of the leading causes of anal fissures, so avoiding it is essential. When on the toilet, take your time and avoid forcing the stool out. Using a small stool to elevate your feet while sitting on the toilet can help achieve a more natural squatting position, making it easier for the stool to pass.
Don’t ignore the urge to go, as holding in stools can lead to hard, dry stools, which can worsen the fissure. Relax and allow your body to do the work.
Keeping the anal area clean is critical to avoiding infection and promoting healing. After each bowel movement, gently wash the area with warm water or use unscented baby wipes or moist toilet tissue. Avoid using harsh soaps or rough toilet paper, as they can cause further irritation.
Pat the area dry with a soft towel rather than rubbing it to avoid aggravating the fissure.
In some cases, natural remedies may not be enough to soften stools. If you’re struggling with constipation despite increasing your fiber intake and staying hydrated, you can consider using over-the-counter stool softeners or mild laxatives.
Stool softeners like docusate sodium can help make bowel movements easier by drawing water into the stool, making it softer and easier to pass. Laxatives should be used sparingly and under medical advice to avoid dependence.
In most cases, anal fissures heal on their own with proper care and attention. Along with the above-mentioned remedies, incorporating some lifestyle changes can help prevent future fissures.
Also, include foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish, flaxseed, and walnuts, which have anti-inflammatory properties that can support the healing of fissures.
While anal fissures are common, some individuals may also develop anal fistulas, which are abnormal connections between the inside of the anus and the skin. Fistula home remedies can help manage symptoms naturally.
Disclaimer: Individual results may vary. The statements on this website and all affiliates have not been evaluated by the FDA. Advice on treatment or care of an individual patient should be obtained through consultation with a physician.
*Multicentric Randomized controlled clinical trial of Ksharsutra (Ayurvedic medicated thread) in the management of Fistula-in-Ano; Indian J Med Res (B) 94, June 1991, pp 177-185
