What is the cause of anal fissure in newborns and how to treat it

Anal fissures in newborns are mainly caused by difficulty in defecation or dry stools, which are usually related to diet, care methods and physiological factors. They can be alleviated by improving care habits, adjusting dietary structure and using drug treatment when necessary.

Common causes of anal fissures in newborns include anal fissures caused by hard stools and friction during defecation. Improper diet, such as insufficient breast milk or improper preparation of formula milk, may lead to constipation, which in turn increases the risk of anal fissures. Newborns have delicate skin, and straining during defecation and incomplete gastrointestinal development can also cause anal fissures. Improper care methods (such as improper wiping) may worsen the damage or cause secondary infection. In some special cases, rare gastrointestinal abnormalities may also be involved, requiring medical examinations for further diagnosis.

For mild anal fissures in the early stages, nursing adjustments are key. Ensuring adequate breast milk or an appropriate proportion of formula milk, and replenishing water in moderation, can help relieve constipation. Increasing the fiber intake in the mother's diet can also indirectly help the baby's intestinal defecation through breast milk. For local cleaning, you can choose a warm water sitz bath (about 5-10 minutes each time, twice a day), which can effectively relieve perianal pain and promote wound healing. If the wound is large or accompanied by infection, you can use a local ointment recommended by the doctor, such as zinc oxide ointment or anti-infective ointment. If the situation is serious or recurring, you should see a doctor as soon as possible to check for the disease.

During the nursing period, pay attention to keeping the anus and periorbital area of ​​the newborn clean and dry. Observe the stool status regularly. If there are abnormalities such as blood in the stool and persistent constipation, further check and adjust the feeding habits. At the same time, avoid wiping the anus and periorbital area with force. You can use a cotton towel to gently press and clean. For severe or suspected pathological anal fissures, you should seek help from a pediatrician as soon as possible. Reasonable care and early intervention can often prevent anal fissures from worsening and promote healing.