What you can do:

• Take sitz baths several times a day. Fill the bath tub with warm water mixed with salt or baking soda.
• Cleanse the area with water (no soap) and pat dry instead of rubbing.
• If there is irritation of the anal skin, apply non-prescription hydrocortisone cream.
• If there is severe pain, apply topical anesthetic ointment several times a day for a few days.
• Avoid constipation by increasing the amounts of fresh fruits and vegetables, beans, and whole grain and bran products.
• Drink plenty of water each day and reduce the amount of milk and cheese you consume.

What you can expect:

• Most anal fissures heal completely after constipation is corrected and stool is softened.
• Possible complications include inflammation, infection, and recurrent fissures resulting in scarring.

Contact your doctor if you still have discomfort or bleeding after treatment.