Three Home Remedies To Treat Anal Fissure Symptoms

Health & Medical Blog

An anal fissure is a tear in the anus and/or anal canal. These are typically caused by trauma to the area that stems from constipation, straining during bowel movements, passing hard or large stools, or childbirth. However, even though it's less common, HIV, anal cancer, syphilis, tuberculosis, and herpes can also cause anal fissures. If you have an anal fissure, you might notice slight bleeding, pain, and itching, all of which can cause discomfort. Thankfully, there are several things that you can do at home to relieve the symptoms of an anal fissure while it heals.

Olive Oil, Honey, and Beeswax

Olive oil works well for treating anal fissures because it's rich in healthy fats, which work to lubricate the area, allowing stool to pass easily, and has anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce the pain from the anal fissure. When mixed with beeswax and honey — both of which also encourage healing — olive oil can also help relieve itching and stop any bleeding you're experiencing.

1. In a microwave-safe bowl, mix equal parts of honey, olive oil, and beeswax.
2. Heat the mixture in the microwave until the beeswax is completely melted.
3. Let the mixture cool. Then, apply it to the area surrounding the anal fissure.
4. Repeat as needed for relief.

Warm Sitz Bath

A sitz bath is a shallow, warm bath that cleanses the perineum — the area between your rectum and vulva or scrotum. It's commonly recommended for people who have hemorrhoids or have recently had hemorrhoids removed, as well as women who have recently given birth or had vaginal surgery. However, it also works well to treat anal fissures because it helps relieve itching irritation, and minor pain. To take a sitz bath,

1. Fill a clean bathtub with three to four inches of warm water.
2. Add Epsom salt or vinegar to soothe the area and baking soda to promote faster healing.
3. Sit in the water, making sure your private area is completely covered, for approximately 20 minutes.
4. Get out of the water and use a towel to pat the area dry.

Petroleum Jelly

Hard stools can worsen any anal fissures that are present. Fortunately, you can use petroleum jelly to lubricate the area before you have a bowel movement to help prevent any additional pain and/or bleeding. Simply, use your finger to apply a small amount of petroleum jelly to your rectum before you have a bowel movement, and don't forget to wash your hands when you're finished.

Anal fissures are uncomfortable, but they are common and can be treated easily. The good news is that an anal fissure will heal on its own. So all you need to do is treat the symptoms you're experiencing to minimise your discomfort during the healing process. For moe information, contact a medical center such as Pilipshen Colon and Rectal Surgical Services.

1 September 2016