Treatment of anal fissure in infants

Treatments for anal fissures in infants include adjusting diet, local care and medication. In severe cases, medical attention is required. Anal fissures are usually caused by constipation, difficulty in defecation or local infection, and symptoms need to be alleviated through diet, care and medication.

1. Adjust your diet

Anal fissures in infants are often related to constipation. Breastfed infants should ensure that their mothers have a balanced diet and avoid spicy and greasy foods. Formula-fed infants can try to switch to easily digestible milk powder or consult a doctor to add probiotics. Infants over 6 months old can appropriately increase fiber-rich foods, such as applesauce, carrot mash, etc., to help soften stools and reduce pain during defecation.

2. Local care

Keeping the baby's anus clean and dry is key. Wash the anus with warm water after each bowel movement, and avoid using irritating wipes. Apply baby-specific diaper cream or vaseline after washing to form a protective layer to reduce friction and irritation. For minor anal fissures, a warm water sitz bath for 5-10 minutes each time can help promote blood circulation and speed up healing.

3. Drug treatment

If the symptoms of anal fissure are severe, medications can be used under the guidance of a doctor. For example, apply antibiotic ointment such as erythromycin ointment locally to prevent infection; use laxatives containing glycerin or lactulose to soften stools and reduce pain during defecation; for infants with obvious pain, doctors may prescribe local anesthetic ointment such as lidocaine gel to relieve discomfort.

4. Medical advice

If anal fissures recur, bleed a lot, or are accompanied by fever, you should seek medical attention immediately. The doctor may perform an anal examination to rule out other diseases such as perianal abscesses or congenital anal malformations, and develop further treatment plans such as surgical repair according to the situation.

The treatment of anal fissures in infants requires a comprehensive approach of diet, care and medication. If the condition is severe, medical attention should be sought promptly. Most anal fissures can be effectively alleviated by adjusting the diet, keeping the area clean and using appropriate medication. Parents should closely observe the baby's bowel movements and deal with any problems promptly to avoid worsening of the condition.