When using the restroom, a large portion of people enjoy reading books or newspapers while squatting, which prolongs the time spent squatting and defecating. This can easily cause congestion in the anal and rectal areas, leading to disease. Smoking during bowel movements can buffer the brain's defecation reflex, making constipation very likely. Excessive force during defecation causes some people to blindly strain without regard for the intensity of their defecation sensation, putting unnecessary strain on the rectum, anus, and pelvic floor muscles, leading to local congestion and the occurrence and development of anal fissures. Experts from the Department of Anorectal Diseases at Zhengzhou Huashan Hospital point out that the main symptoms of anal fissures are defecation pain, bleeding, and constipation. Aside from seeking medical attention during acute episodes, most cases require home care. So, how do we properly adjust ourselves? We can choose sitz bath therapy.
Unusual Daily Tips to Prevent Anal Fissures
Unusual Tip One: Prevent Constipation
1. Water Therapy: Water therapy is the most effective and inexpensive method to prevent constipation. According to the physiological needs of adults, daily fluid intake should reach 2000-3000 milliliters. Suitable beverages include plain water, light salt water, honey water, and soup before and after meals. Avoid excessive consumption of strong tea or caffeine-containing beverages. Tannic acid in tea can contract and tighten stools, while coffee has a diuretic effect that accelerates water loss.
2. Balanced Diet: It's advisable to consume more high-fiber foods such as fresh vegetables, fruits, sweet potatoes, and oatmeal. High-fiber foods soften stools, increase fecal volume, and stimulate colonic peristalsis. Some patients with anal fissures can alleviate symptoms merely through these methods.
3. Defecation Habits: The most physiologically appropriate time for defecation is upon waking up in the morning or after breakfast. After a night of digestion and absorption, feces have already been stored in the sigmoid colon. The "standing reflex" produced by getting up and the "gastric-colonic reflex" generated after breakfast can increase colonic peristalsis waves, raise colonic pressure, and induce the urge to defecate. At this time, one can smoothly expel feces without increasing abdominal pressure.
Unusual Tip Two: Timely Treatment
To prevent anal fissures, it's important to promptly treat diseases that could lead to anal fissures and remove the underlying causes. Timely treatment of anal cryptitis prevents infections from forming ulcers and subcutaneous fistulas; when performing anorectal examinations such as digital rectal exams or using anoscopes or other instruments, avoid rough handling to prevent anal canal injuries that could cause anal fissures.
Promptly treat Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, and other intestinal diseases to prevent anal fissures as complications; women should pay attention to hygiene during menstruation and avoid heavy physical labor. During pregnancy, consume more fruits and vegetables to prevent constipation. During childbirth, protect the perineum to avoid tearing the perineum and anus.