Symptoms

Anal fissure (disorder), Nontraumatic tear of anus, Fissure in ano,Ulcer of anus (disorder), anal disorder, anal ulcer unspecified (disorder), anal disease, fissure in ano, Solitary anal ulcer (disorder), anal fissure, anal fissure and fistula,

An anal fissure is a tear or open sore (ulcer) that develops in the lining of the anal canal.

The anal canal is the last part of the large intestine. It's located between the rectum where stools are stored and the opening in the bottom stools are passed through (anus).

Anal fissure symptoms

The most common symptoms of anal fissures are:

  • a sharp pain when you pass stools, often followed by a deep burning pain that may last several hours
  • bleeding when you pass stools, most people notice a small amount of bright red blood either in their stools or on the toilet paper
  • a visible tear in the skin around your anus
  • a skin tag, or small lump of skin, next to the tear
  • streaks of blood or stools or on tissue paper after wiping
  • burning or itching in the anal area

When to see your GP

See your GP if you think you have an anal fissure. Don't let embarrassment stop you seeking help: anal fissures are a common problem GPs are used to dealing with.

Most anal fissures get better without treatment, but your GP will want to rule out other conditions with similar symptoms, such as piles (haemorrhoids) .

Your GP can also tell you about self-help measures and treatments that can relieve your symptoms and reduce the risk of fissures recurring.

Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 12 Jan 2018
Medical Author: Dr. med. Diana Hysi