Anal Fissure

For Teenagers

What is an anal fissure?

An anal fissure is a shallow tear or crack in the skin at the opening of the anus. More than 90% of teenagers with blood in their stools have an anal fissure.

You may notice the following signs or symptoms:

The blood is bright red.
The blood is only a few streaks or flecks.
The blood is on the surface of the bowel movement (BM) or on the toilet tissue after wiping.
You usually pass a large or hard bowel movement just before you notice the blood.
Touching the tear causes mild pain.

What causes an anal fissure?

Injury to the anal canal during passage of a hard or large BM is the usual cause of anal fissures.

How long does it last?

Bleeding from a fissure stops on its own in 5 or 10 minutes.

How can I take care of myself?

Warm saline baths
Cleanse the anal area with warm water on a washcloth. If that doesn't help, sit in a tub of warm water with about 2 ounces of table salt or baking soda added. Do this 3 times a day for 1 or 2 days. Don't use any soap on the irritated area. Then gently dry the anal area.
Ointments
If the anus seems irritated, you can apply 1% hydrocortisone ointment (nonprescription). If the pain is severe, apply instead 2.5% Xylocaine or 1% Nupercainal ointment (nonprescription) 3 times a day for a few days to numb the area.
Diet
The most important aspect of treatment is to eat a nonconstipating diet. Increase the amounts of fresh fruits and vegetables, beans, and bran products that you eat. Reduce the amounts of milk products you eat or drink. Milk products are constipating.

Occasionally a stool softener (such as mineral oil) is needed temporarily.

When should I call my health care provider?

Call during office hours if:

The bleeding increases in amount.
The bleeding occurs more than two times after treatment begins.
You have other concerns or questions.