Hemorrhoids vs. Anal Fissure: How to Differentiate Between Them?

Many people experience pain in the anal area, but few can distinguish between hemorrhoids and anal fissures. Despite some similarities in symptoms, there's a significant difference between the two conditions in terms of causes, symptoms, and treatment methods. In this article, we'll explain in a simple and direct way the difference between hemorrhoids and anal fissures, how you can tell them apart, when to see a doctor, and the latest available treatment methods.

First: What Are Hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the anal and lower rectal area, often caused by significant pressure on the veins during bowel movements, pregnancy, or prolonged sitting.

Types of Hemorrhoids:

• Internal Hemorrhoids: Located inside the rectum, they usually don't cause pain unless they prolapse (descend outside).

• External Hemorrhoids: Located under the skin around the anal opening, they cause pain, itching, and sometimes bleeding or clots.

Key Symptoms of Hemorrhoids:

• Bright red blood during or after bowel movements.

• Pain or discomfort in the anal area.

• Swelling or a palpable lump.

• Itching or irritation.

Second: What is an Anal Fissure?

An anal fissure is a small tear or cut in the lining of the anal opening, often caused by chronic constipation, passing hard or large stools, or even as a result of natural childbirth.

Symptoms of an Anal Fissure:

• Sharp, burning pain during and after bowel movements.

• Small amount of blood with stool or on toilet paper.

• Contraction or spasm in the anal sphincter muscle.

• Feeling of an "open wound."

The Difference Between Hemorrhoids and Fissures: How to Distinguish Them?

When to See a Doctor Immediately?

If you experience any of the following, you must see a doctor:

• Continuous or recurrent bleeding.

• Severe pain that worsens over time.

• Prolapse of a lump from the anal opening.

• No improvement with home remedies.

Latest Treatment Methods at Hemocure:

At "Hemocure," we rely on modern and effective techniques such as:

• Laser: For treating hemorrhoids and fissures without traditional surgery, leading to faster recovery.

• Accurate Diagnosis: Using advanced devices for early detection.

• Free Follow-up Sessions: To ensure complete recovery and post-operative monitoring.

• Special Care for Women: Especially after childbirth.

Advice from the Clinic

❝ Not all pain during bowel movements means hemorrhoids, and not every small bleed means a fissure. Correct diagnosis is the first step towards the right treatment. ❞

Conclusion

Both hemorrhoids and anal fissures are common conditions affecting the anal area, but there are clear differences between them in causes, symptoms, and treatment methods. Hemorrhoids are characterized by swollen veins around the anus and can be internal or external, while a fissure is a tear in the anal lining often resulting from constipation or childbirth. Accurate diagnosis is fundamental for choosing the appropriate treatment, which may range from topical treatments to surgery or laser. Therefore, it is advisable to visit a doctor upon the appearance of any symptoms to ensure early and effective intervention.