How to improve discomfort during bowel movements?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have discomfort during a bowel movement. It started as sharp as two months ago and has been off and on since. Lately, it has been minimal but I have taken Colace consistently for about 1.5 weeks now which seems to help me have a bowel movement without much discomfort. I am increasing my water intake and taking in decent fiber each day. I am 10 to 11 months postpartum. I have had no blood that is visible. The pain typically goes away immediately after the stool passes, but sometimes can burn slightly afterward.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I am reviewing your case history in detail and will get back to you in a while. Kindly wait for my detailed response.

Thank you.

Answer 2

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I read your query and understand the concern. Exactly,

1. This is what my clinical impression was, you might have a small or minor anal fissure that would heal on its own, you just have to avoid straining and stools should be soft.

2. Warm water sitz baths and Lidocaine gel for local application would help you a lot.

3. If your symptoms would be persistent even after doing the above steps, there is an option of GTN (Rectogesic) ointment, which we use for acute anal fissures. I think your symptoms would improve without GTN ointment. I am just writing about how it should be used, in case you would need it in the future.

4) GTN ointment can be used twice daily. Pea-size ointment after passing stools, clean the area, and apply this ointment at the anal verge and slightly inside, this should be there for a good one to two hours at least. This is a very effective treatment for painful anal fissures. I hope you will not need this. Kindly get back if you have more queries.

Thank you.