Dr. Samhitha Reddy
Consultant Proctologist & Laparoscopic Surgeon
MBBS, MS, FMAS, FISCP, DMAS
- 8 Yrs
- ASCRS Member
Anal fissure: why the pain is so sharp
Medically reviewed by
Dr. Abhishek Katha, MS, FMASConsultant Proctologist
Last reviewed · 7 min read
A fissure is a small tear in the sensitive lining just inside the anus. Because that lining is richly supplied with nerves, a tear only a few millimetres long can cause pain out of all proportion to its size.
The classic description is a sharp, tearing pain while passing stool, followed by a deep ache that can last for hours.
Why fissures are so painful
Pain causes the internal sphincter to go into spasm. That spasm reduces blood flow to the tear, which slows healing and makes the next bowel movement hurt again — a cycle that keeps the fissure open.
Important
Fissure pain and piles are frequently confused. Piles usually bleed painlessly; a fissure usually hurts sharply and bleeds only a little.
How fissures are treated
- Softening stool so the tear is not reopened daily
- Warm sitz baths to relax the sphincter
- Topical medication to improve blood flow to the area
- A day-care procedure if the fissure becomes chronic
Speak to the proctology team
Daycare procedures, cashless insurance, and consultations seven days a week at Gachibowli.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a fissure take to heal?
An acute fissure often heals within a few weeks once stools are soft. A fissure lasting beyond six to eight weeks is considered chronic and usually needs more than diet changes.
Can a fissure turn into a fistula?
Not directly, but an untreated fissure can become infected, and abscesses are what lead to fistulas. Getting a persistent fissure treated lowers that risk.
Still unsure what is causing your symptoms?
A short consultation with a Lux proctology specialist can tell you what you are dealing with — and what, if anything, needs treating.
Gachibowli, Hyderabad · Seven days a week · Cashless insurance accepted
Sources & references
Published · Last reviewed · Next review due March 2027
This article is published for general education. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace an in-person consultation. If you are worried about a symptom, please speak to a qualified doctor.
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