How to Tell the Difference Between Anal Fissures and Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids and anal fissures are two of the most common problems that people will experience that affect their anus. Both of these conditions share symptoms that can make them difficult for an individual to discriminate between. However, there are also some notable differences between the two.

What are fissures and hemorrhoids

An anal fissure is a crack or tear in the skin of the anal canal. In contrast a hemorrhoid is a swelling of the veins surrounding the rectum or anus. These are the major differences between the two.

Both anal fissure and hemorrhoids are first noticed due to the presence of bright red blood on the toilet paper or in the toilet bowl after a bowel motion. Acute fissures and external hemorrhoids can cause the individual to experience pain associated with a bowel movement. However chronic fissures and internal hemorrhoids can be present with little to no pain. Also, hemorrhoids are associated with itching, which is not a common symptom of anal fissures. Since it is difficult for an individual to see the anal region to discriminate between a fissure or hemorrhoid consulting a medical professional is always recommended.

Causes

Since an anal fissure is a tear in the tissue, any activity that causes stretching of the anal tissue more than normal, will lead to a fissure. A shallow fissure will resemble a paper cut, and because they are fairly small, will heal all by themselves after a few weeks. However given their location, personal hygiene is essential otherwise an infection can occur.

Deep anal fissures may not heal without some form of medical treatment. In adults, fissures can be caused by either prolonged diarrhea, constipation or by anal sex. A fissure is also common in women just after childbirth. Hemorrhoids are also common as a result of constipation, lack of water or heavy lifting or over exertion such as child birth.

Prevention

The following will help prevent both fissures and hemorrhoids. Avoiding straining during a bowel motion. People normally strain due to being constipated, so any treatment that reduced constipation will help here as well. So, ensure you eat enough foods rich in fiber and drink plenty of water. The use of a lubricating ointment such as those commonly used for hemorrhoids can also be helpful.

Treatment

Natural non-surgical treatment is always recommended in the beginning for anal fissures and hemorrhoids. Treatments shared between anal fissures and hemorrhoids include using a sitz bath, local topical anesthetics, increasing your fiber intake and stool softeners.

In severe cases, surgery can be an option for both, however as with any surgical procedure there are risks associated with this option.