Anal fissures occur more frequently than most people might think. Every one out of ten people gets anal fissures at some point in their life. The good news is that there are various treatments for an anal fissure London. However, most incidences don’t last longer than six weeks and can heal naturally. Here are a few self-care tips that can help hasten the healing process and alleviate anal fissures for good.

Stay Hydrated

Dehydration is a major cause of constipation that can sometimes lead to an anal fissure. In general, a healthy person should be on eight cups of water a day. But other fluids can also help keep you hydrated. These include fruit and vegetable juices, clear soups, and herbal teas. Alcohol and caffeinated drinks don’t count, though, as they serve as diuretics.

Have a Fiber-Rich Diet

To avoid constipation, which can ultimately lead to an anal fissure, you want a diet with something between 20 to 35 grams of fiber per day. Fiber-rich meals range from whole grains, oatmeal, cereals, and citrus fruits. Fiber supplements can also be effective if you aren’t getting enough fiber from your food. A fiber-rich diet will soften your stool, making it more regular and keeping anal fissures away.

Get Some Laxatives

Laxatives are commonly used to help relieve constipation. Though they are easily acquired without a prescription, numerous forms exist, some of which may react with medicine. So if you’re already under medication, check with your doctor before taking any. And of course, don’t overuse them either.

Don’t Ignore the Urge to Go

Putting off that washroom break for later can sometimes lead to constipation. Stool becomes harder the longer it stays in the body. So when the time comes to pass, there may be pain and tearing.

Avoid Scented Personal Hygiene products

Scented products can irritate the skin and hamper the fissure healing process. These include products like scented soaps, bath oils, lubes, wipes, and others. Instead, gently clean and dry the anal area with soft tissues, wipes, or cloths.

Take Warm Baths

Have long warm baths two or three times a day to get that healing process underway. By soaking the rectal area in a tub of warm water, you’re keeping it clean, improving blood flow, and relaxing the anal muscles. Consider 10-20 minutes of a warm bath for the ultimate relaxation.

Conclusion

The above six habits should be enough to heal most if not all anal fissures within a couple of weeks to a month. But if that’s not the case for you, consult your doctor about other possible treatments of anal fissure London. They could recommend medicated foams, creams and ointments, muscle relaxants, and even surgery. But the latter is considered only as a last option when all other forms of treatment don’t work.