What causes anal fissure in newborns?

Anal fissures in newborns are usually caused by dry stools or excessive force during defecation, which leads to tearing of the perianal skin. In addition, other factors such as improper care, infection, and congenital anal stenosis may also be the cause.

Dry stool is the most common cause of anal fissures in newborns. When there is insufficient water in the diet or the formula ratio is not appropriate, the stool will become hard, which can easily irritate and damage the delicate skin around the anus during excretion. Improper care, such as frequent use of irritating wipes or failure to change diapers in time, can cause the skin around the anus to become dry and lose elasticity, greatly increasing the risk of anal fissures. Bacterial or fungal infections may also cause inflammation of the perianal skin and lead to fissures. Some newborns may have incomplete defecation or require excessive force due to congenital problems with the anal structure or digestive system, increasing the possibility of anal fissures. Typical symptoms of anal fissures include blood in the stool (usually bright red blood) and pain or crying during defecation, and parents need to pay special attention to these manifestations.

Dry stool is the most common cause of anal fissures in newborns. When there is insufficient water in the diet or the formula ratio is not appropriate, the stool will become hard, which can easily irritate and damage the delicate skin around the anus during excretion. Improper care, such as frequent use of irritating wipes or failure to change diapers in time, can cause the skin around the anus to become dry and lose elasticity, greatly increasing the risk of anal fissures. Bacterial or fungal infections may also cause inflammation of the perianal skin and lead to fissures. Some newborns may have incomplete defecation or require excessive force due to congenital problems with the anal structure or digestive system, increasing the possibility of anal fissures. Typical symptoms of anal fissures include blood in the stool (usually bright red blood) and pain or crying during defecation, and parents need to pay special attention to these manifestations.

To prevent or relieve anal fissures in newborns, it is recommended that mothers of breastfeeding newborns ensure a high-water diet and ensure that the formula is brewed strictly according to the guidance ratio when feeding to avoid too dry stools. Probiotics can be appropriately added to help maintain intestinal health and promote smooth bowel movements. During the nursing process, use mild cleaning products, and insist on cleaning the anus with warm water and keeping it dry after each diaper change to avoid excessive dryness or infection of the skin. If anal fissures have already occurred, you can use lubricants or ointments suitable for newborns such as cream-based vaseline, zinc oxide ointment, etc. under the guidance of a doctor to protect the wound and accelerate healing, and use warm water sitz baths to relieve discomfort around the anus. When the fissure is accompanied by severe blood in the stool, inflammation or other abnormal manifestations, you should seek medical attention immediately, and a professional physician should develop a personalized treatment plan to avoid aggravating the condition. Parents should focus on their children's diet, bowel movement patterns and proper anal care to reduce the risk of recurrence.