Can You Have Hemorrhoids & Anal Fissures Simultaneously?

For anyone who has ever suffered from hemorrhoids or anal fissures, the short answer is yes-unfortunately, you can have both simultaneously. Having one condition puts you at greater risk of developing the other. Here’s a look at why these two conditions often occur together and what you can do to find relief by finding and getting hemorrhoid removal or anal fissure treatment in Calgary.

How Hemorrhoid & Anal Fissure Treatment in Calgary Works

What Are Hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels in the anal or rectal area. They can be internal, meaning they’re inside your rectum, or external, which means they’re under the skin around your anus. Either way, when these veins become swollen or inflamed, they can bleed and trigger tremendous discomfort. Hemorrhoids are usually caused by straining during bowel movements or sitting for long periods on the toilet. This strain causes the veins around the anal canal to become engorged with blood, which leads to inflammation and pain. 

What Are Anal Fissures?

Anal fissures are small tears in the lining of the anus or rectum. Fissures are usually caused by passing hard or large stools; this trauma to the delicate mucus membranes lining the anal canal can cause them to tear or bleed. Like hemorrhoids, they can be extremely painful, often described as feeling like razor blades slicing through tissue. The pain is caused by spasms in the anal sphincter muscle-the muscle that controls bowel movements-in response to the tissue injury. Chronic constipation and diarrhea can also cause or worsen anal fissures.

Hemorrhoids and Anal Fissures: Together?

Unfortunately, the answer is yes. Because both conditions are caused by irritation and inflammation in the anal area, it’s not uncommon for people with one to develop the other. It’s estimated that up to 95% of people with anal fissures also have hemorrhoids. 

So, why do hemorrhoids and anal fissures so often occur together? There are a few reasons:

  • Chronic constipation or diarrhea-which often leads to straining during bowel movements, is a common cause of both conditions.
  • Anal fissures can cause hemorrhoids because the tears leave the veins vulnerable to infection.
  • Having either condition makes you more susceptible to developing the other due to the increased pressure on the veins and tissue in the anal area. 

Getting Hemorrhoid & Anal Fissure Treatment

When it comes to hemorrhoid and anal fissure treatment, there are several different options available. Some popular treatments include over-the-counter creams, medications, and suppositories. These can help relieve the itching and burning associated with hemorrhoids and reduce swelling and inflammation. However, for more severe cases, surgical measures may be required. Procedures like cutting or stapling can help to treat inflamed tissue or open small tears in the skin that may otherwise lead to long-lasting problems. Ultimately, the best approach will depend on your individual needs and the severity of your condition. With the right treatment plan in place, it is possible to manage hemorrhoids and prevent them from returning.

Award-winning, innovative and passionate, N.A. Hemorrhoids Centre is a hemorrhoid clinic in Calgary offering reliable hemorrhoid treatment. As hemorrhoid specialists, we can treat anal fissures, anal fistulas, anal abscesses, anal itching and more. As a naturopathic hemorrhoid clinic with an international reach, our services are the right solution to treat your sensitive and uncomfortable concerns. Contact us today at 403-796-7551 for more information or to book your appointment.