Anal Fissures

Anal fissures are inflamed tears or ulcers that arise between the mucous membranes and the outermost skin of the anus. The sharp, sticking, cramping pain that occurs after a bowel movement, lasting up to an hour later, is typical because the fissure rests on the anal sphincter muscle, which spasms upon contact with passing stool. Stains of fresh blood on the toilet paper are common.

Anal fissures are caused by the combination of straining due to constipation, and irritated, dry skin from excessive rubbing, rough toilet paper, or large, hard stools. Because of the humidity and constant exposure to fecal waste, this area is slow to heal and requires some diligence in treatment. Since a bowel movement is painful, constipation is not only a common cause, but also a result of anal fissures. For the most part, children and older adults are affected.

Constipation needs to be dealt with immediately, before fissures can heal. Adding fiber and fluids to the diet will bring relief by softening the feces. Eat plenty of fruits such as apples, pineapples, prunes, figs and drink juices such as raw beet, carrot or celery juice. Bran, however, should be avoided as it is too rough on fissures. Instead, psyllium husks with plenty of water will bring the desired results. Flax seed oil, two to three tablespoons a day, aids in softening the stools and helps lubricate the mucous walls of the colon. Refined and processed foods and dairy products are constipating and should be avoided.

Supplements and herbs

Healing can be supported with vitamin E both internally and externally. To apply to the mucous membranes, pierce a capsule and apply as often as necessary.

Herbal remedies provide quick and soothing relief to irritated skin caused by anal fissures.

• Keep anal area meticulously clean by washing gently with a cotton cloth soaked in a warm chamomile and witch hazel infusion. Witch hazel shrinks blood vessels and chamomile speeds healing.
• Apply salves of calendula to relieve pain and  itching, St. John's wort oil, aloe vera gel or plantain infusion to speed healing. Apply three times a day or as needed.
• Slippery elm enemas help neutralize acidity and act as buffers against irritations.
• Drink stinging nettle juice to alleviate the discomfort of fissures and facilitate bowel evacuation. Take 1 tsp. three times daily.
• Rub a combination of buckthorn, aloe vera and tea tree oils mixed with vegetable oil or water on the skin to help relieve itching. Apply three times daily or as needed.

Additional things you may do

• A calendula suppository is very healing to the mucous membranes.
• Alternating sitz-baths improve circulation to rectal area and promote healing. Sit in a tub of warm water for three minutes, then cold water for one minute. Alternate three times.
• After every bowel movement, wash anal area gently with cotton cloth soaked in warm water.

Usual dosage

• Vitamin E, with mixed tocopherols, 800 IU.

Other beneficial herbs

• Bistort
• Senna

Comments

From Cheryl

I have found that Calendula gel (not cream) use at the site is very helpful. However the tips on here might provide more relief where scarring is an issue. When applying the vitamin E, gently stretching the region after healing (of course) will also help.