Anal fissures are most commonly caused by damage to the lining of the anus or anal canal, the last part of the large intestine. Most cases occur in people who have constipation, when a particularly hard or large poo tears the lining of the anal canal. Other possible causes of anal fissures include: persistent diarrhoea.
There are many potential causes of rectal pain including hemorrhoids, anal fissures, inflammation from IBD, infection, and trauma. Cancer is also a potential cause, but it's much less common. Rectal pain is often easily diagnosed and managed.
Most hemorrhoids only cause a mild discomfort, but the pain can become severe if the hemorrhoids become thrombosed. This occurs when the blood in the hemorrhoid clots. There is an excruciating throbbing or stabbing pain that begins suddenly and can last for several days.
People spend a lot of time sitting down, and experiencing pain in the buttocks when sitting can cause concern. Pain in this area can be temporary due to a bruise or minor injury, but it can also result from a more serious, long-term condition.
Extreme pain that feels like you are passing glass or razor blades when you are pooping can be caused by several different conditions, including an anal fissure, anal fistula or piles (also known as haemorrhoids).
Hemorrhoids are a real pain in the backside — literally — but don't despair; they usually disappear on their own. Unfortunately, hemorrhoids become a recurring problem for some people that can seriously interfere with daily activities.
There is a chance of inflammations and for symptoms to occur again if a hemorrhoid is left untreated for a long time or treated improperly. If inflammation exists, hemorrhoids will be swollen and enlarged.
Anal pain (pain in the bottom) can be distressing. But is often just the result of a minor, treatable condition. Many common causes of anal pain will improve with self-care treatments. See your GP if your pain is severe, doesn't improve after a few days or you have rectal bleeding.
The pain can be localized to the anus but can radiate to the buttocks, upper posterior thighs, or lower back. Often the pain is triggered by a bowel movement, can last for hours, and can be severe. Bleeding is usually not significant. Most patients with fissures have a history of constipation.
Most commonly, you could: Feel discomfort, itching, or pain around your anus. See blood on the toilet paper or in the toilet bowl when you go to the bathroom. Get moist, pink bumps around the edge of or bulging out from your anus (These may look purple or blue, too.)
While severe complications of hemorrhoids are quite rare, it's important to know when to see your doctor. "Anytime you have bleeding, feel a lump in the anus, or have rectal pain, you should see a doctor to make sure you don't have a more serious cause of the symptoms," says Aline J.
Pruritis Ani "Also known as anal itching, it's easily mistaken for hemorrhoids, but it's just an itch that often clears up with some dietary changes,” explains Olortegui.
There is no set duration for hemorrhoids. Small hemorrhoids may clear up without any treatment within a few days. Large external hemorrhoids may take longer to heal and cause significant pain and discomfort. If hemorrhoids have not resolved within a few days, it is best to see a doctor for treatment.
Fortunately, most cases of bright red blood during a bowel movement and resultant discomfort or pain are caused by a benign condition known as hemorrhoids or piles. However, this condition can be easily confused with anal fissures – small cuts or tears in the lining of the anus.
An anal fissure is a tear in the lining of the lower rectum (anal canal) that causes pain during bowel movements. Anal fissures don't lead to more serious problems. Most anal fissures heal with home treatment after a few days or weeks. These are called short-term (acute) anal fissures.
Prevention of anal fissures
Eat a high-fibre diet. Drink plenty of water to help soften stools. Consider using a fibre supplement (such as Metamucil). Make sure to wipe gently after going to the toilet.
Vaseline or petroleum jelly is good for anal fissures as it helps to lubricate the anorectal area. In addition, soaking in a warm bath for 10 to 20 minutes several times a day, avoiding strained toilet or prolonged sitting on the toilet, and gently cleansing the anorectal area helps to relax the anal muscles.
Research has shown that pain in this area is due to small (and often repetitive) injuries to the gluteal (buttock)muscles and tendons (usually gluteus minimus and gluteus medius). This can cause what is called gluteal tendinopathy.
How long can buttock pain last? The buttock pain can last from days to weeks and even months, depending on the cause of buttock pain. For example, in the case of sciatic pain, the pain usually starts getting better in a period of four to six weeks.