ALPHA
A tear in the mucosal lining of the anal canal - most commonly due to trauma from defecation
Acute - present for less than 6 weeks
Chronic - present for more than 6 weeks
- Intense pain with potential bleeding or itching
- Constipation and IBD risk factors
- Most managed conservatively with analgesia, laxatives (stool softening) and fluids - avoid opioids and NSAIDs.
- Consider underlying cause in anterior fissures or recurrent disease
- Surgical options in severe cases