Cutting Pain During Defecation
Patients often describe this pain as being cut by glass. It typically starts with the passage of stool and may continue as burning or spasm for a period afterwards.
The pain cycle
A tear causes pain, pain causes sphincter spasm, spasm reduces blood flow and delays healing, and fear of pain leads to postponed defecation and harder stools. Treatment aims to interrupt this loop.
Conservative measures
- Fibre and fluid intake to keep stools soft
- Warm sitz baths to relieve spasm
- Topical treatments prescribed after examination
- Avoiding straining and prolonged toilet sitting
When further treatment is considered
If pain and bleeding persist beyond several weeks despite conservative measures, or if the fissure is chronic with a sentinel tag, additional treatment options are discussed individually after examination.
This page is for general information only
The content here is not a diagnosis or treatment recommendation and does not replace an individual medical evaluation. If your symptoms persist, consult a physician. In emergencies call 112 or the nearest emergency department.