Can you explain the difference between anal fissure and anal fistula?

Tear vs. Tunnel: An anal fissure is a tear in the lining of the anal canal, just inside the opening, and typically causes pain and bleeding. An anal fistula is an abnormal communication (tunnel) from inside the anal canal out to the perianal skin, usually the result of a prior perirectal abscess. It may cause drainage, swelling, discomfort and recurrent abscesses. Both are treatable conditions.

Fissure and Fistula: A fissure is a tear in the anal canal lining caused by straining, and hard stools. It is treated medically or surgically. A fistula is abnormal communication between the anal canal and the skin. This is usually related to an anorectal abscess. It should be treated surgically. If it involves crohns disease, special medical therapy may be used.

All Different: Fissure: think paper cut in your anus hemorrhoids: think varicose veins in the anus fistula: much more complex - think aberrant tract from rectum to skin that shouldn't be there.