Ananal fissureand ahemorrhoidare different conditions.
An anal fissure is when there is a tear or a crack in the anus.
A hemorrhoid is when a vein in the anus becomes swollen.
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Both conditions can cause pain and bleeding.
However, because theyre treated differently, its important to be able to tell them apart.
However, they can cause other problems as well.
First, a healthcare provider will take a medical history.
A physical exam is usually also done.
The healthcare provider will want to take a look at the anal area.
They may do adigital rectal exam.
This is when a gloved, lubricated finger is quickly inserted into the anus.
A healthcare provider can feel if there are any internal hemorrhoids.
Ananoscopyorproctoscopyis another test that might be done.
Before a physical exam or another test, you may want to ask about pain relief.
Treatment
There are some treatments that will be used for both an anal fissure and a hemorrhoid.
Prescription medications can include nitroglycerin or pain relieving creams applied directly to the anus.
Oral medications can include calcium channel blockers, which might be used after topical treatments havent provided relief.
A lateral internalsphincterotomyis the most common surgery done.
It reduces tension on the inner anal sphincter muscle, allowing more blood flow and better healing.
Procedures to reduce the size or remove the hemorrhoid might then be used.
Surgery might also be used for hemorrhoids that dont respond to other treatments.
A stapledhemorrhoidopexyis another surgery whereprolapsed hemorrhoids(those that protrude from the anus) are stapled in place.
Comfort Measures
Taking good care of the anal area is also important.
Straining to pass a bowel movement is also to be avoided.
Preventing constipation, diarrhea, and straining on the toilet is also important to preventing hemorrhoids.
Sitting too long on the toilet can be a risk factor for hemorrhoids, so that should be avoided.
Lifting heavy objects or weight lifting can contribute to the formation of hemorrhoids.
Learning to lift heavy objects properly is important so as not to strain.
Both may show blood in the stool and rectal pain.
Both can be sparked by constipation or diarrhea.
An anal fissure may also be triggered by trauma, infection, or inflammatory bowel disease.
Getting a diagnosis and a treatment plan from a healthcare provider is important in healing and preventing complications.
A Word From Verywell
Fissures and hemorrhoids can be distressing and embarrassing problems to deal with.
Talking about bathroom problems in the anal area with a healthcare provider can be difficult.
Still, its important to remember that they wont be shocked or surprised.
Frequently Asked Questions
Sometimes a hemorrhoid or a fissure may get better at home with conservative treatments.
Adding fiber to the diet, drinking enough water, and regular exercise may all help avoid hemorrhoids.
Additionally, avoiding too much time on the toilet is important.
Blood in or on the stool or the toilet paper can be from a hemorrhoid.
However, it’s important to know for sure.
Bleeding can also happen for more serious reasons and it’s better to rule those out.
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National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.Symptoms & causes of hemorrhoids.
Jamshidi R.Anorectal complaints: hemorrhoids, fissures, abscesses, fistulae.Clin Colon Rectal Surg.
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National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.Hemorrhoid treatment.
