An anal fissure is a cut or tear in the lining of the anal canal, which is the last part of the large intestine and where the stool passes out of the body. A few of the symptoms of an anal fissure include pain, bleeding, itching, and pain during bowel movements.
The sharp pain associated with anal fissures is something you will most likely never forget. There are many medical conditions that cause anal pain, but an anal fissure is caused due to constipation where the strain of passing hard and dry stools can occur tears in the skin of the anus.
However, did you know that fissures can be treated naturally? Yes, there are certain home remedies that can ease the pain and discomfort caused by anal fissures. Our colorectal specialists at the Gut care clinic, Bangalore, help to learn how to treat anal fissures with effective home remedies.
1. Add fiber to your diet
Eating 25 to 30 grams of fiber a day can help prevent stools from being too hard (constipation) or too liquid (diarrhea). A soft, easily passed stool will be less traumatic on the anal fissure and prevent it from becoming more severe.
Some good sources of high-fiber foods include fruits, vegetables, nuts, and whole grains, sesame seeds, pumpkin seeds, chickpeas, and soybeans, etc. Adding fiber may cause gas and bloat, so increase your fiber intake gradually.
2. Sitz baths
Taking a sitz bath means sitting in a tub of lukewarm water to reduce pain and discomfort in the anal area. Fill warm water in the bathtub, add a few drops of natural lavender oil and mix it thoroughly. It is recommended to sit in a tub for 15-20 minutes and repeat the sitz bath up to three times a day.
Make sure the tub is clean and keep the water at the optimum temperature as excessive heat can damage the anal area and make the fissures more complicated.
3. Stool softeners
A stool softener helps to prevent constipation. Stool softeners are not laxatives but are considered safe as they are associated with a few side effects. These softening stool agents help pull more water into the digestive tract or the intestines, which softens the bowels.
Stool softeners are recommended to be used for about a week. Other lifestyle changes should be made to help with constipation in order to discontinue stool softeners.
4. Drinking more water
Staying hydrated can help you overcome the problem of constipation, passing hard and dry stools. Drinking sufficient water can help keep stools soft and easier to pass. Foods high in water content such as broccoli, cabbage, and tomato can also contribute to water intake goals.
The amount of water needed varies from person to person, but generally, men need about 13 cups and women need about 9 cups a day. More water is needed after workouts or while pregnant or breastfeeding.
5. Coconut oil
Another natural remedy for anal fissures involves the use of coconut oil. It is loaded with medium-chain triglycerides that can easily pass through your skin, keep the affected area lubricated, and promote the healing process.
Applying coconut oil to the anal sphincter two times a day helps in treating anal fissures. However, if you have chronic fissures, you will need to apply coconut oil several times a day to get rid of the anal fissures.
6. Olive oil
Olive oil contains healthy monounsaturated fats that help lubricate your bowel system and allow the stool to pass smoothly. Besides, it is also known to have anti-inflammatory properties which provide relief from the pain and discomfort caused by anal fissures.
Mix equal amounts of olive oil, honey, and beeswax in one bowl and place it in a microwave until the beeswax melts completely. Allow the mixture to cool down and then apply it to the affected area to heal fissures in the anal area.
7. Aloe vera
Aloe vera can be used to heal anal fissures and repair damaged skin tissue through its healing and pain-relieving properties. Research studies also state that applying topical cream containing aloe vera juice can effectively cure chronic anal fissures.
Remove an aloe vera leaf, slice it with the help of a knife and scrape out the gel using a spoon. Apply this gel on the affected area, a few times a day to reduce the pain and discomfort caused by the anal fissures.
Fissures can be treated effectively in the initial stages with the above home remedies. But if the signs and symptoms of anal fissures are consistent you should consult a professional. Get in touch with our fissure treatment experts at Gut care clinic for the most advanced treatment for anal fissures.
