Anal tears
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What can I do to help my anal tear heal?

You may be able to help your anal tear heal by taking these steps.

Eating lots of fiber
 
 
 
 
 
fiber
Fiber is all the parts of your diet that your body can't absorb. This is why foods that are high in fiber make you have more bowel movements. When your body can't absorb something, it leaves your body in your stools. Foods high in fiber include wholemeal bread and cereals, root vegetables and fruits.
 
 
 
 
 
Fiber is food that isn't broken down by the body. It makes your stools more bulky. This usually makes them easier to pass. Foods high in fiber include:
  • Wholegrain cereals
  • Bread and pasta
  • Root vegetables
  • Nuts
  • Fruits.
Adding fiber to your food may also keep you from getting more anal tears.
 
 
 
 
 
Source:
American Gastroenterological Association.
Technical review on the diagnosis and care of patients with anal fissure.
Gastroenterology. 2003; 124: 235-245.
 
 
 
 
 
1

The fiber in fresh fruit and vegatables may help keep you from getting another anal tear.

Drinking lots of fluids
Drinking lots of water and other drinks can keep you from getting
 
 
 
 
 
constipated
When you're constipated, you have difficulty passing stools (feces). Your bowel movements may be dry and hard. You may have fewer bowel movements than usual, and it may be a strain when you try to go.
 
 
 
 
 
constipated. It also makes your stools softer and easier to pass.

Having frequent warm baths
Warm baths can help ease the pain caused by your anal tear and to relax your anal muscle.
 
 
 
 
 
Source:
American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons.
Patient information: Colorectal diseases and procedures: anal fissure.
Available at http://www.fascrs.org/patients/conditions/anal_fissure/ (accessed on 21 October 2008).
 
 
 
 
 
2

Taking laxatives if you're constipated
Ask your doctor if you should try
 
 
 
 
 
laxative
A laxative is a kind of medicine you can buy over the counter. Laxatives empty your bowels by making you go to the bathroom often.
 
 
 
 
 
laxatives.

Sources for the information on this page:
  1. American Gastroenterological Association.Technical review on the diagnosis and care of patients with anal fissure.Gastroenterology. 2003; 124: 235-245.
  2. American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons.Patient information: Colorectal diseases and procedures: anal fissure.Available at http://www.fascrs.org/patients/conditions/anal_fissure/ (accessed on 21 October 2008).
This information was last updated on Nov 06, 2008
BMJ Group
This information is for educational use only, and is not a substitute for prompt professional medical advice. Readers should always consult a physician or other professional for advice and treatment.
© BMJ Publishing Group Limited 2009. All rights reserved.