Fissure, medically known as anal fissure, is a small tear or cut in the thin, delicate lining of the anal canal. It is a very common and painful condition that affects people of all ages. The tear usually occurs due to passing hard or large stools, chronic constipation, or excessive straining during bowel movements. When the lining tears, it exposes sensitive nerve endings, leading to sharp pain and discomfort.

The most common symptom of an anal fissure is intense pain during and after passing stool. This pain may last from a few minutes to several hours. Many people describe it as a burning or cutting sensation. Other symptoms include bright red bleeding during bowel movements, itching around the anus, and visible cracks or tears near the anal opening. Some may also experience spasms of the anal sphincter, which can worsen the pain and make the fissure harder to heal.

Anal fissures are of two types: acute fissure, which is recent and may heal within a few weeks with proper care, and chronic fissure, which persists longer and may show signs of scar tissue or a small skin tag called a sentinel pile.

Several factors can increase the risk of fissure formation, including chronic constipation, diarrhea, low-fiber diet, pregnancy, childbirth, inflammatory bowel diseases, or anal trauma. Maintaining proper bowel habits and hygiene is essential to prevent fissures.

Treatment starts with simple measures. Increasing fiber in the diet, drinking plenty of water, and using stool softeners help prevent hard stools. Warm sitz baths relax the anal muscles and promote healing. Doctors may prescribe topical ointments such as nitroglycerin or calcium channel blockers to improve blood flow and reduce pain. Pain relievers and anesthetic gels can provide temporary relief.