Health

Anal fissure: A common cause of painful defecation

An anal fissure is a tear in the lining of the anus, the opening where bowel movements come out. Anal fissures cause pain, especially during a bowel movement. There is a muscle that wraps around the anus and holds it shut normally. It is called the “anal sphincter.” The sphincter gets tense once the anus has been injured. In people with anal fissures, the sphincter goes into spasms, which can lead to further injury.
Dr. Ian Shyaka
Dr. Ian Shyaka
Times Reporter