A 59-year-old female asked:
four or five days ago i had a dry bowel movement that tore skin at the anus. it has been bleeding since then. how can i stop it? there are no more details.
2 doctor answers • 3 doctors weighed in
Dr. Joy Jackson answered
Family Medicine 19 years experience
You : You can apply a small amount of topical antibiotic ointment with pain medication to the area two to three times a day. This can be bought in any pharmacy over the counter(otc). Also avoid straining with bowel movements, increase your fiber intake, water, and try a stool softener like colace, (docusate sodium) which can also be purchased otc. If the bleeding persists see your doctor.
5332 viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Eric Kaplan answered
Colon and Rectal Surgery 42 years experience
Fissures: Are tears in the anal canal from spasm in the internal sphincter which arises with constipation or chronic diarrhea. Besides causing pain and bleeding, they can get infected and cause abscesses and/or fistulas. They should be properly diagnosed and treated too avoid complications. Drink more fluids and if the pain and bleeding doesn't stop in 10-14 days see a colon and rectal surgeon.
5104 viewsReviewed >2 years ago
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Last updated Nov 9, 2017
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