How to Cure Rectal Fissures

A rectal fissure or anal fissure is caused by a tear in the anal canal. Possible causes include constipation, straining during a bowel movement, passing large or hard stools, inflammation of the rectal area and in rare cases, anal sex. Anal fissures cause pain and bleeding. According to the Mayo Clinic, 90 percent heal without surgery. Surgery is usually recommended if it has not healed after two months. Treatments include self-care through lifestyle recommendation, and medications. In most cases, anal fissures heal in a few weeks.

Things You'll Need

• 20 to 35 g of fiber daily
• Water
• Exercise
• Nonsurgical treatments

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Instructions

• 1

  Consume 20 to 35 g of fiber daily to prevent constipation and to help stool pass more easily. High fiber foods include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans and legumes. In reality, most people do not reach these numbers; consider taking a fiber supplement if you have trouble getting enough fiber through diet.

• 2

  Drink enough fluids so that your urine is clear or a very light yellow; this will prevent constipation. Water is the best choice.

• 3

  Exercise for at least 30 minutes several days a week. Light activity like walking encourages regularity and increases blood flow. Both will promote healing.

• 4

  Talk to your doctor about nonsurgical treatments if self-care methods are not easing the pain and bleeding. You might receive nitroglycerine ointment, which increases blood flow to the injury and reduces pressure. Other possible treatments include an injection of Botox into the sphincter or taking certain blood pressure medications orally or topically, where they are crushed and mixed with a gel. Take all medications exactly as directed and notify your doctor of any side effects.