An anal fissure is a tear in the opening at the end of the gastrointestinal tract, called the anus.
Anal fissures in children are most often caused by constipation and the passage of hard or large stools. One-time anal fissures are common in young children, though youth with Crohn's disease may experience multiple, more severe or recurrent tears due to their condition.
A child with an anal fissure may have the following symptoms:
A pediatric gastroenterologist can diagnose an anal fissure with a physical examination and by talking with the child. The physician may perform tests, including:
Most anal fissures will heal without treatment over time. Several home treatments can aid healing. Your child's physician may recommend the following:
Visit the website below to learn more about anal fissures.
Riley at IU Health offers a broad range of supportive services to make life better for families who choose us for their children's care.
The U.S. National Library of Medicine website provides information for patients and families about the causes of and treatments for anal fissures.
In addition to our primary hospital location at the Academic Health Center in Indianapolis, IN, we have convenient locations to better serve our communities throughout the state.
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