Causes and Risk Factors of Anal Fissure
Anal fissures are most often caused by trauma to the anal canal, particularly during a hard or strained bowel movement. The tear usually forms in the posterior (back) midline of the anus, where blood flow is relatively lower — making it slower to heal. Below you can read more about the causes and risk factors of anal fissure.
Common Causes:
- Constipation and hard stools – The leading cause in adults
- Chronic diarrhoea – Frequent wiping or irritation can cause tears
- Childbirth – Straining and pressure during delivery
- Anal intercourse
- Insertion of objects (e.g. during medical procedures or accidents)
- Inflammatory bowel disease – Conditions like Crohn’s disease can lead to fissures
- Poor hygiene or over-wiping
Risk Factors:
- Low-fibre diets
- Dehydration
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Infancy and early childhood – Common due to sensitive skin and irregular bowel habits
- Older age – Due to decreased skin elasticity and slower healing
- HIV infection or immunosuppression – Increases risk of chronic fissures
In some cases, no obvious cause is found — these are called idiopathic fissures. Identifying and addressing the underlying cause, such as constipation or poor bowel habits, is essential to preventing recurrence.
Let’s now look at how anal fissures are diagnosed and differentiated from other conditions.
👉 [Next: Diagnosis of Anal Fissure]
Complications and Recovery from Constipation
