Treated by Dr. Ravi Chandra Reddy Obili at Dr Ravi Chandra Reddy
An anal fissure is a small tear or crack in the thin, moist tissue lining the anus. It commonly causes sharp pain during and after bowel movements, along with bright red bleeding. Most fissures heal with simple measures, though some may need additional treatment. Dr Ravi Chandra Reddy evaluates and manages anal fissures, starting with conservative care and considering procedures only when needed.
A fresh tear that has been present for less than six weeks. It typically has sharp edges and a clean base, and usually heals with conservative treatment.
A fissure persisting beyond six weeks, often with thickened edges and exposed muscle fibres at the base. May have a skin tag at the outer edge.
A fissure resulting from other conditions such as Crohn's disease, tuberculosis, or infections. Requires treatment of the underlying cause alongside fissure management.
Multiple factors can contribute to the development and progression of this condition.
Recognising the signs early gives you more treatment options.
Diagnosis begins with a detailed history and gentle external examination of the anal area. Most fissures are visible without internal examination, and not every patient requires additional tests.
From conservative to surgical — we always start with the least invasive option first.
A structured, patient-first approach from first visit to full recovery.
Dr Ravi Chandra Reddy takes a detailed history of your symptoms, bowel habits, and any previous treatment. A gentle external examination is performed to identify the fissure without causing unnecessary discomfort.
For most patients, treatment begins with dietary advice, stool softeners, and topical medications. Guidance on sitz baths and pain relief is provided, with follow-up to monitor healing over four to six weeks.
If the fissure does not heal, Dr Ravi Chandra Reddy discusses options such as botulinum toxin injection or surgery. The choice depends on the fissure type, your symptoms, and your preferences after a full explanation of risks and benefits.
After any treatment, regular follow-up ensures the fissure is healing and that bowel habits remain comfortable. Long-term advice on diet and fibre intake helps prevent recurrence.
What to expect at each phase of recovery.
With conservative treatment, most acute fissures begin to improve within a few days, though complete healing may take four to six weeks. Pain typically lessens before the fissure fully closes.
After botulinum toxin injection or surgery, some discomfort and bleeding are normal for a few days. Sitz baths and pain relief are continued, and most people return to normal activities within one to two weeks.
Maintaining soft stools through diet and hydration is key to preventing new fissures. Regular follow-up helps address any concerns early and reinforces healthy bowel habits.
Most patients experience significant improvement in pain and bleeding with appropriate treatment. However, response times vary, and some fissures may take longer to heal or may recur.
Conservative measures heal the majority of acute fissures. Chronic fissures may require additional treatment, and surgery offers good results for those who do not respond to other options.
Even after successful treatment, fissures can return if constipation or straining recurs. Ongoing attention to diet and bowel habits is important to reduce this risk.
Sphincterotomy carries a small risk of temporary or permanent changes in bowel control. Dr Ravi Chandra Reddy discusses these risks fully so you can make an informed decision about treatment.
An untreated anal fissure may become chronic, leading to persistent pain and difficulty with bowel movements. The constant spasm of the anal muscle can prevent healing and may eventually form a skin tag or sentinel pile. In some cases, an untreated chronic fissure can cause significant distress and impact daily activities, though most people seek care before complications develop.
You should see a doctor if you experience pain or bleeding with bowel movements that lasts more than a week or two, or if simple measures like increased fibre and sitz baths do not bring relief. Seek prompt care if bleeding is heavy, if you develop fever, or if you have a history of bowel disease, as these may indicate other conditions requiring assessment.
Early treatment means more options and better outcomes. Book a consultation to understand your condition and explore the right path forward.
