An anal fissure is a painful tear in the moist tissue lining the anal opening. Anal fissure typically occurs due to constipation or straining hard during the bowel movement. This condition can significantly impact life causing pain and bleeding with bowel movements. Anal fissures often heal within a few weeks with effective home treatments. However, a chronic anal fissure resistant to any other treatment requires surgery, where doctors perform a procedure called lateral internal sphincterotomy (LIS).
Anal fissure post surgery recovery generally takes 2 - 3 weeks for your anus to heal completely. However, it is essential to take post-operative care seriously to ensure you do not go through any post-surgical complications during your healing process. Hence we have compiled this guide with adequate post-surgery recovery care instructions and tips to help you have a smooth healing journey.
Essential Post-Operative Anal Fissure Surgery Care Tips
Let us now understand some important post-operative care tips to enhance your recovery process -
Anal Fissure Post Surgery Care Tip #1 - Wound Care
The most critical post-surgery care tip for anal fissure is keeping the wound area clean and dry. So here are some steps you can take -
Gently wash the area with water after bowel movements.
Pat the area using soft towels or baby wipes, as excessive wiping with toilet paper can irritate your skin.
While bloody or mucous discharge may persist for a few weeks post-surgery, you can use a gauze or sanitary napkin to prevent the soiling of clothes.
Anal Fissure Post Surgery Care Tip #2 -Pain Management
While pain and discomfort can be common post-surgery, you must follow your doctor's prescribed pain medication regimen.
Anal Fissure Post Surgery Care Tip #3 - Consume Fibre-Rich Diet
To soften the stools and ease bowel movements, consuming high-fibre foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes is important. This helps reduce strain, especially during defecation and promotes smooth healing.
Anal Fissure Post Surgery Care Tip #4 - Stay Hydrated
Yet another anal fissure post surgery care tip is to stay hydrated! Proper hydration is essential to aid in softening stools.
Note - Avoid consuming excessive caffeine and alcohol, which can dehydrate your body.
Anal Fissure Post Surgery Care Tip #5 - Laxatives and Stool Softeners
To prevent constipation and reduce pressure on the surgical area, your doctor may provide stool softeners or mild laxatives. These aids help promote a smoother recovery process and minimize discomfort during the bowel movement.
Anal Fissure Post Surgery Care Tip #6 - Take Sitz Baths
Sitz bath is a warm water bath to relieve discomfort in the perineal region. So yet another anal fissure post surgery care tip is to take warm sitz baths 3-4 times daily to soothe the area. This also improves the blood flow, which further helps heal the wound.
Note - Use a specialized sitz bath, a tub or a clean basin to immerse the hips in warm water for 4-5 minutes.
Anal Fissure Post Surgery Care Tip #7 - Avoid Straining and Certain Foods
Refrain from activities that can cause strain on the surgical area, such as heavy lifting or strenuous exercise, during the healing process. Do not force bowel movements; allow them to occur naturally. While high-fibre foods are essential, there are certain foods that you must completely avoid, such as spicy foods, citrus fruits, and foods that may irritate the digestive system, as these foods can worsen discomfort and irritation.
Anal Fissure Post Surgery Care Tip #8 - Follow-Up Appointments
Attending all the scheduled follow-up appointments with your surgeon is essential to monitor your healing process and address any post-operative care concerns.
Exercises To Follow Post Anal Fissure Surgery For Better Recovery
While the following exercises can help smoothen the recovery process, it is essential to consult your doctor before proceeding with any -
Short Walks: Go for short and gentle walks to improve blood circulation. This will help promote healing without putting excessive strain on the surgical area.
Kegel Exercises: Perform these exercises to strengthen your pelvic floor muscles. This will help in aiding better bowel movement and bladder control during recovery.
Deep Breathing: Practice deep breathing techniques to help you relax the pelvic region and reduce tension. This will also help alleviate any discomfort.
Pelvic Tilts: Perform pelvic tilts to improve flexibility and reduce pressure on the anal region while promoting healing.
Embracing the Road To Recovery - Visit Your Surgeon!
We hope this comprehensive guide on the anal fissure post surgery recovery tips has been insightful. However, seeing your surgeon on follow-up visits is best to ensure a smooth healing process. At Jain Multispeciality Hospital, our surgeons strive to provide a comfortable recovery journey through expert guidance and unparalleled commitment.
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