Health & Beauty: Anal Fissure

I’ll be honest, I didn’t even know what an anal fissure was until I got one. It all started after fasting for a week. I realized that I wasn’t drinking enough water or eating enough fiber to help with my bowel movements. My stool got harder, and passing it became… let’s just say, extremely uncomfortable. At first, I thought it was just mild constipation, but the sharp pain and the slight bleeding made me panic. After doing a bit of research (and confirming with a doctor, of course), I found out that I had an anal fissure, a small tear in the lining of the anus.

It sounds scary, but it’s actually more common than people think, especially when you’re dehydrated or not getting enough fiber. And while it can be painful, with the right self-care, it can heal on its own.

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What Causes Anal Fissures?

Anal fissures usually happen when your stool is too hard or too large, causing the skin around your anus to tear during bowel movements. This often happens due to:

• Dehydration – Not drinking enough water makes stool dry and hard.

• Low-fiber diet – Without enough fiber, your digestion slows down.

• Constipation or straining – Pushing too hard while on the toilet.

• Fasting or irregular eating habits – Skipping meals and fiber-rich food can cause bowel movement issues.

So yes, my week of fasting without proper hydration was the perfect recipe for disaster.

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Self-Care Tips to Heal (and Prevent) Anal Fissures

If you ever find yourself in the same situation, don’t panic. Here are some self-care steps that helped me (and are also doctor-recommended):

1. Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Hydration softens your stool and makes bowel movements less painful.

2. Increase Fiber Intake

Eat more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. If that’s hard to maintain, you can also take fiber supplements like psyllium husk.

3. Use a Stool Softener (If Needed)

Over-the-counter stool softeners can help reduce strain and discomfort during bowel movements.

4. Warm Sitz Baths

Sitting in warm water for 10–15 minutes a few times a day (especially after using the toilet) helps relax the anal muscles and promote healing.

5. Avoid Straining

Don’t force a bowel movement. If you don’t feel the urge, wait; pushing only worsens the tear.

6. Keep the Area Clean

Gently clean the area with water and pat dry. Avoid scented wipes or soaps that can irritate the skin further.

7. Apply Ointments (If Recommended)

Some creams or ointments can help soothe the area and speed up healing, but it’s best to consult your doctor first before applying anything.

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When to See a Doctor

Most anal fissures heal within a few weeks with proper care, but if the pain persists, bleeding continues, or the fissure keeps coming back, you should definitely see a doctor. Chronic fissures might need medical treatments such as prescription ointments or, in some cases, minor procedures.

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My Takeaway

I’ve learned the hard way (literally) that gut health and hydration are everything. It’s not just about fasting or eating clean, it’s about keeping your digestive system healthy and balanced. So if you’re planning to fast, detox, or change your diet, make sure you’re still drinking enough water and getting enough fiber. Trust me, your body (and your bum) will thank you later.