What causes anal fissure in men and how to treat it

Anal fissures in men are mainly caused by tears in the anal skin or mucosa, and common causes include constipation, diarrhea, excessive anal dilation, etc. Treatments include improving bowel habits, medication, and surgical intervention.

1. Constipation is one of the main causes of anal fissures. Long-term constipation can lead to excessive force during defecation, excessive stretching of the anal skin and mucosa, and easy tearing. It is recommended to increase dietary fiber intake, such as eating more vegetables, fruits and whole grains, and maintain adequate water intake every day, which will help soften stools and reduce pressure during defecation.

2. Diarrhea may also cause anal fissures. Frequent diarrhea can cause repeated irritation of the anal skin and mucous membranes, increasing the risk of tearing. Avoiding irritating foods, such as spicy and greasy foods, and reducing coffee and alcohol intake can help relieve diarrhea symptoms.

3. Over-dilation of the anus is also a common cause of anal fissures. Sitting for a long time, exerting too much force during bowel movements, or using hard toilet paper may cause over-dilation of the anus. It is recommended to avoid sitting for a long time and use soft toilet paper or wet wipes to clean the anus to reduce friction and irritation to the anal skin.

4. Medication is an effective way to relieve anal fissure symptoms. Topical application of ointments containing anesthetic and anti-inflammatory ingredients, such as lidocaine ointment or hydrocortisone ointment, can relieve pain and inflammation. Oral analgesics, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can also help relieve pain.

5. Surgical treatment is suitable for recurrent or severe anal fissures. Common surgical methods include sphincterotomy, fissure resection and laser therapy. Sphincterotomy reduces anal pressure and promotes healing of fissures by cutting part of the anal sphincter. Fissure resection removes scar tissue around the fissure and promotes new tissue growth. Laser therapy uses laser energy to precisely remove diseased tissue, reducing postoperative pain and recovery time.

6. Improving living habits can help prevent the recurrence of anal fissures. Maintaining regular bowel habits, avoiding long periods of sitting, and doing appropriate aerobic exercise, such as walking and swimming, can help promote intestinal peristalsis and reduce the occurrence of constipation and diarrhea.

The treatment of male anal fissures requires comprehensive consideration of the cause and symptoms, and appropriate treatment measures. Improving bowel habits, medication, and necessary surgical intervention can effectively relieve symptoms and promote healing of fissures. Maintaining good living habits can help prevent the recurrence of anal fissures.