Both hemorrhoids and anal fissures are characterized by rectal bleeding. Anal fissures, also known as anal wounds, are characterized by bleeding from the anus or the presence of blood during defecation. This symptom can also be observed in cases of hemorrhoids. Learn the differences between hemorrhoids and anal fissures by reading the following article.

How to identify hemorrhoids and anal fissures

Hemorrhoids and anal fissures share similar symptoms, specifically bleeding from the anus. Nevertheless, hemorrhoids and anal fissures are different medical diseases. Hemorrhoids are characterized by the inflammation and enlargement of the blood vessels located in the anus and the distal part of the rectum. An anal fissure is a laceration or injury in the anus, typically resulting from constipation or diarrhea.

Below are several distinctions between hemorrhoids and anal fissures:

Symptoms

There are two types of hemorrhoids: internal and external. Internal hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels in the anus that cannot be seen from the outside, whereas external hemorrhoids are swellings that can be seen or felt from the outside. External hemorrhoids symptoms include itching, redness, or soreness around the anus, feeling a lump in the anus, and bleeding after defecation.

The symptoms commonly associated with anal fissures include:

• Rectal bleeding occurs.
• Pain during defecation
• Prolonged post-defecation pain
• Anal discomfort or anal tenderness

Causes

Although hemorrhoids and fissures share certain characteristics, there are a number of additional factors that can contribute to their progression. Although a specific cause of hemorrhoids is unknown at this time, the following are some potential triggers:

• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Tendency for carrying weighty objects
• Habit of pressing as a result of constipation or diarrhea
• Muscle tension in the pelvic floor may result from pregnancy.

Anal fissures, characterized by perforations in the anus, may arise from various factors, including constipation. In addition to diarrhea, the following medical conditions may also be responsible for this injury:

Constipation is one of many factors that can cause tears in the anus in anal fissures. This injury can occur due to diarrhea and several other health conditions, such as:

• Sexually transmitted infections
• Inflammatory bowel disease
• HIV infection
• Birth delivery
• Trauma
• Tuberculosis infection

Management

Anal fissures can be treated with home treatments, including sitz baths, consumption of fiber foods, and increased water intake to promote regular bowel movements. In addition, it is possible to consume fiber supplements and stool softeners; nevertheless, it is advisable to get medical advice prior to their consumption.

Doctors may also prescribe topical analgesics for direct application to the anus. If the anal fissure fails to improve with home treatments and prescribed medicine, it is advisable to seek further medical attention from the doctor. A doctor may suggest suitable procedures for treating anal fissures.

Treatment for hemorrhoids must be specific to the stage. Early-stage or mild hemorrhoids typically resolve spontaneously. Nevertheless, depending on the severity of the hemorrhoids, doctors may advise medication, dietary and lifestyle modifications, or even surgical intervention for stage 2 to late hemorrhoids

Are hemorrhoids and anal fissures preventable?

Hemorrhoids and anal fissures are preventable medical conditions. Maintaining proper stool consistency and avoiding both constipation and diarrhea can help prevent anal fissures or anal tears. A healthy diet high in fiber and enough water consumption might also help you modify  your lifestyle.

Preventing anal fissures can help prevent hemorrhoids. Another hemorrhoid prevention approach is to stop lifting heavy weights.

Hemorrhoids and anal fissures are prevalent medical conditions. If you experience persistent hemorrhoids or anal fissures that do not show signs of improvement, you can either visit a dentist or make use of the consultation features that are available in the Ai Care application by downloading the Ai Care application from the App Store or Play Store.

Looking for more information about other diseases? Click here!