An anal fissure is the tearing of the mucosa in the anal region. This damage to the mucosa is favored by hard bowel movements and increased pressure during pressing. A distinction is made between an acute form of anal fissure, which can usually be treated conservatively, i.e. without surgery. The conservative treatment options include the use of ointments and creams, but also some home remedies or homeopathic drugs that can have a supportive effect. In contrast, surgical treatment is indicated for a chronic form that is present for a long time and does not heal, for example due to a wound healing disorder.
Treat anal fissure yourself
There are several ways to treat an anal fissure. Especially in the acute form, surgery is usually not necessary. Instead, mainly ointments and creams should be used.
Proper anal hygiene and a balanced healthy diet to normalize bowel movements are also very important. These elements of the treatment can usually be applied by the patient himself. However, it is very important to always consult a physician if anything is unclear, so that there is certainty about the diagnosis, the type of anal fissure present and the correspondingly correct treatment. In order to prevent more serious complications, it is usually worthwhile to see a doctor.
Treating anal fissures in children
A child does not usually develop a complete anal fissure, but rather small thin cracks in the mucosa. Before a real mucous membrane damage with inflammatory reaction can develop, these tears usually heal again. Therefore, a restrained therapy should be carried out in the first place.
For all age groups, the correct anal hygiene is crucial. The treatment can also include the use of macrogol or lactulose. These stool softeners are mainly used in infants. Vaseline or other fat creams can also be used for a few days.
Ointments
There are numerous ointments and creams that are used to treat anal fissures. They are primarily used for acute anal fissures, as these respond well to appropriate ointments due to the favorable conditions for wound healing. Ointments available over the counter in pharmacies include Bepanthen and Posterisan® acute.
Furthermore, Doloposterine N ointment, Nitroglycerin ointment and Diltiazem ointment can be used. For application, the package insert should be followed exactly. If necessary, the ointment should be applied with the help of an applicator or an anal dilator.
In case of uncertainties, consultation with a physician is recommended. For further information please refer to our article “Creaming an anal fissure”. Bepanthen ointment is a simple option for treating an anal fissure in the acute stage.
However, the fissure should not be too large for this treatment, so the ointment is recommended for use rather in case of a small fissure. Due to the precursor active ingredient of vitamin B5, Bepanthen promotes wound healing and simultaneously stimulates the regeneration of the skin. The application can be carried out over several days without hesitation, as Bepanthen has hardly any side effects.
However, should a rash or pain occur, a doctor should be consulted. Furthermore, caution should be exercised when using condoms, as Bepanthen can lead to a lower resistance of the condoms to tearing. Vaseline or another fat cream, such as milking grease, is well suited for use in the event of an anal fissure.
Vaseline provides increased elasticity of the mucous membrane in the anal region, which leads to pain relief. In addition, the greasing effect supports the regeneration of the mucosa. If possible, Vaseline should be applied without applying pressure. Vaseline is also well suited for the application of an anal dilator, which is necessary, for example, for the application of another cream or ointment. Vaseline makes the anal dilator easier and less painful to use.
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