Women's Health
Ask the doctor: What can I do about an anal fissure?
Ask the doctor
Simple home remedies can help. It's important to relax the anal sphincter and keep stools soft and regular. The mainstay of therapy is added fiber in the diet (fruits and vegetables are good sources) or from a supplement such as psyllium (Metamucil) or methylcellulose (Citrucel). Plenty of fluid is also important. If fiber and fluid don't do the trick, try an over-the-counter stool softener. To help relax the sphincter and relieve pain, take a warm sitz bath after bowel movements. Vaseline (petroleum jelly) may also ease your symptoms.
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