Anal Fissure and Haemorroids
Terms You Should know
Anal Sphincter : Muscles around the anal canal that contract, closing the anus to prevent the expelling of stool.
Anorectal : Pertaining to the anus and rectum
Anus : The opening at the end of the large intestine ( rectum) that expels stool. See also large intestine.
Bowel : The small or large intestine.
Colon : A portion of the large intestine not including the rectum.
Colorectal : Pertaining to the colon and rectum.
Consitpation : The infrequent or difficult passage of hard, dry stools.
Diarrhoea : Loose or watery and often frequent bowel movements.
Fibre : A food substance that resists chemical digestion and passes through the system relatively unchanged.
Haemorrhoid : A swollen vein in or around the anus.
Impaction : Pressed firmly together so as to be immovable, often causing an obstruction.
Intestines : The portion of the digestive tract that extends from the stomach to the anus. The term intestines includes the small and large intestines.
Large intestine: A muscular tube that extends from the end of the small intestine ( ileum) to the anus.
Laxative : A medicine that helps relieve constipation.
Parianal : The area located around the anus.
Rectum : The lowest portion of the large intestine.
Sigmoid colon : The lower part of the large intestine that connects to the rectum.
Sphincter : A circular band of muscle that acts as a valve.
Stool : Waste products such as food residue expelled from the body through the rectum and anus. Also referred to as faeces.
Anal Fissure
An anal fissure is a small tear or cut in the lining of the anus which can cause pain and/or bleeding.
Symptoms, Causes and Diagnosis
Haemorrhoids
Symptoms of Internal and External Haemorrhoids
Treatment