If you suffer from constipation on a regular basis, you could develop a painful fissure, which is a tear in the lining of your anal cavity. Unfortunately, painful anal fissures can cause you to hold your stool in, which can lead to further constipation. What you end up with is a constant cycle of constipation and pain. If you're stuck in that cycle, you need to take matters into your own hands. You need to break the cycle. Here are three simple steps you can take to help break the cycle.
Use the Bathroom More Frequently
As stated earlier, holding your bowel movements in can lead to a continual cycle of constipation and anal fissure tears. To prevent your stool from becoming too hard for you to pass, in turn causing more damage to your fissures, use the bathroom as soon as you get the urge. The more you go, the softer your stool will get, which will help your fissures heal.
It's also important that you cleanse the area thoroughly and carefully when you have a bowel movement. Ordinary toilet paper can irritate your delicate anal tissue, which will prevent the fissure from healing properly. To soothe the fissure, and promote healing, wipe the area with a moist hygiene wipe.
Adjust Your Seating Arrangement
You might not realize this, but the position you're seated in will play a big role in how easy it is to have a bowel movement. If your feet are planted firmly on the floor, your body isn't in the proper position to pass stool easily or comfortably. Unfortunately, that means you're going to strain more to have a bowel movement, which will put pressure on your fissures, causing them to rupture. If you're straining to have a bowel movement, adjust the way you're sitting on the toilet. Place a child's foot stool in front of the toilet, and put your feet up. Elevating your feet will realign your bowels so you can pass stool more easily.
Drink Plenty of Water
If you drink a lot of caffeinated beverages during the day, you could be increasing your risk of constipation. Cure the constipation by trading your caffeinated beverages for clear water. The added water will help soften your stool and reduce constipation so you can have easier bowel movements.
Don't let constipation and anal fissures become a vicious cycle in your life. Use the tips provided here to break the cycle. If your fissures are accompanied by severe pain, or significant bleeding, you need to consult with a doctor as soon as possible. For more information, contact local professionals like those found at Pilipshen Colon & Rectal Surgical Services.
