To heal an anal fissure fast, the main strategies involve keeping the stool soft to prevent further tearing, reducing pain and sphincter muscle spasms, and promoting wound healing. Key approaches include:
- Increasing dietary fiber (25-35 grams/day) and drinking plenty of fluids to keep stools soft and regular.
- Using over-the-counter stool softeners if needed to ease bowel movements.
- Taking warm sitz baths for 10-20 minutes several times a day to relax the anal sphincter and reduce pain.
- Applying topical treatments such as nitroglycerin ointment to increase blood flow and help healing, or lidocaine creams for pain relief.
- In some cases, calcium channel blockers (like diltiazem or nifedipine) or botulinum toxin (Botox) injections may be used to relax the sphincter muscle and promote healing.
- Wearing loose cotton underwear and avoiding straining or prolonged sitting on the toilet can also help.
- Eating anti-inflammatory and fiber-rich foods such as oatmeal, legumes, and probiotic-rich foods may support healing.
Most fissures heal within a few weeks with these measures. If symptoms persist beyond 6-8 weeks or worsen, medical evaluation is necessary as surgery might be required. Overall, the best fast healing involves stool softening, sphincter relaxation, proper hygiene, pain control, and anti-inflammatory nutrition.
