What Causes an Anal Fissure, and How Can It Be Treated Naturally? - #15407
I recently started experiencing sharp pain and bleeding during bowel movements, and after some research, I think I might have an anal fissure. From what I understand, an anal fissure is a small tear in the lining of the anus, but what exactly causes it, and how can it be treated? I read that chronic constipation, straining, and passing hard stools are the most common causes of anal fissures, but can they also be triggered by diarrhea, childbirth, or inflammatory bowel diseases? One thing that concerns me is that some anal fissures heal on their own, while others become chronic and require medical treatment. How do you know if an anal fissure needs surgery, or if it can be managed with lifestyle changes? Are there any Ayurvedic or natural remedies that help with anal fissure healing and pain relief? I’ve heard that ghee, Triphala, and Sitz baths are beneficial for soothing fissures and promoting healing—do these actually work? If anyone has had an anal fissure, what treatments helped you recover the fastest? Did dietary changes, home remedies, or medical treatments work best?
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Doctors’ responses
Thank you for sharing your concerns. Anal fissures are common and often painful, typically caused by constipation, straining, or passing hard stools. However, they can also result from diarrhea, childbirth, or conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The tear exposes sensitive nerve endings, leading to sharp pain and bleeding during bowel movements.
Most fissures heal on their own with dietary changes and proper care. Increasing fiber intake (fruits, vegetables, whole grains) and drinking plenty of water can help soften stools and promote healing. Sitz baths (soaking in warm water) provide significant relief by relaxing the anal muscles and improving blood flow. If symptoms persist beyond 6-8 weeks, your doctor may recommend topical medications or, in rare cases, surgery.
Ayurvedic remedies like ghee and Triphala may help soften stools and reduce inflammation. Sitz baths with antiseptic herbs can soothe discomfort. These remedies may aid healing, but chronic cases still require medical attention. If pain or bleeding worsens, consult your doctor for the best course of treatment. Let me know if you need more details!
gud vidarana (anal fissure) adhikansh rogon ka karan malbadhata, kathin mal pravartan, ya atyadhik dirgha kaal tak pet ki asamanyata hoti hai. atisaar (diarrhea), prasav, evam agni mandya bhi iska karan ban sakte hain. ayurved me iske nivaran hetu triphala churna, castor oil, evam ghee ko atyant upyogi mana gaya hai, jo mal ko mridu banakar fissure ke swabhavik upchar ko protsahit karte hain. snan ke pashchat tikt snehan (jaisa ki jatyadi tail ya kumari gel) lagana rahat deta hai. avipattikar churna ya gandharvahastadi tail se pachan sudhar kar mal ko komal banana chahiye. agar samasya dirgha kaal tak bani rahe, to vaidya se paramarsh lena avashyak hai.
Anal fissures can be incredibly uncomfortable, yeah, and you’re right on track about the causes—chronic constipation and straining are definitely big culprits. But yes, issues like diarrhea, childbirth, and inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) can also mess with the anal lining, though with a slightly different dynamic. Basically, anything that makes you push harder or irritates the anal passage could potentially lead to a fissure. So you’re not wrong there.
Often, fissures do heal on their own, especially if the cause is addressed quickly and you allow your body to kinda recover naturally. But when it becomes a more stubborn, or chronic issue, it often needs more attention. If a fissure persists more than 6 weeks, or it happens repeatedly, it’s often considered chronic, and surgery might be an option if other treatments fail. So, in these cases, seeing a healthcare professional for an assessment can be wise to avoid further complications.
Now, from an Ayurvedic perspective, addressing those underlying imbalances, like vata particularly, which contributes to dry hard stools or pitta issues for irritation, is key. Increasing the intake of fiber-rich foods, like green leafy veggies, oats, and fruits, can help soften stools and relieve strain. Ghee, you’re onto something there. It’s often used to soothe irritation and heal. A teaspoon of it with warm water taken early morning can balance Vata dosha and help lubricate.
Triphala’s known as a remedy for digestive issues, not only does it work as a mild laxative, but it also tones the colon. A pinch before bed might facilitate easier bowel movements. Sitz baths, soaking in warm water a few times a day really does make a difference, relaxing the anal sphincter and easing pain.
Stay hydrated. Man, water’s seriously underrated. And movement, gentle exercise—get things moving but nothing too strenuous.
Honestly, Ayurveda emphasizes a holistic approach, consistency with these little changes can sometimes be enough. Always, though, if the fissure doesn’t seem to improve, touch base with a doctor. You don’t want to let it linger and get worse, your comfort and health’s at stake. So, pay attention to your body and move forward with care.

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