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Anal Fissures

Are you struggling with painful tears during bowel movements? At GastroDoxs in Houston, board-certified Dr. Scott specializes in diagnosing and treating anal fissures with personalized, minimally invasive techniques. From dietary guidance to advanced procedures, we provide compassionate care for relief.

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Texas Medical Board
Harris County Medical Society
American College of Gastroenterology
American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
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Houston Methodist leading Medicine
HCA Houston Healthcare
Scott Liu

About the Expert

Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.

Common Causes and Risk Factors

  • Constipation or straining during bowel movements
  • Passing hard or large stools
  • Long-term diarrhea
  • Childbirth or injury/trauma to the anal area
  • Inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis)
  • Poor blood flow to the anal region

Signs and Symptoms

  • Sharp, intense pain during or after a bowel movement
  • Itching or burning sensation around the anus
  • Bright red blood on toilet paper or in the stool
  • Visible crack or tear in the skin around the anus
  • Spasms or tightness of the anal sphincter muscle

How Dr. Scott Diagnoses Anal Fissures

Dr. Scott begins with a gentle physical exam to understand your symptoms:

Physical Exam

He asks about your symptoms and bathroom habits to gather detailed information.

Anoscopy

Dr. Scott may use a small tool called an anoscope to examine the anal area closely.

In-Office Diagnosis

This checkup helps distinguish between anal fissures, hemorrhoids, and other conditions like fistulas.

Dr. Scott
Treatment

Our Team offers a full range of care for anal fissures.

1. Lifestyle and Diet Changes

  • Drink more water to help soften stools
  • Add fiber slowly (try supplements like psyllium or methylcellulose)
  • Don't strain-go to the bathroom when you feel the urge

2. Medications

  • Topical creams (such as nitroglycerin or nifedipine) to relax the sphincter muscle
  • Prescription stool softeners or mild laxatives
  • Lidocaine creams for targeted pain relief

3. Minimally Invasive or Surgical Procedures

  • Botox injections to reduce muscle spasms
  • Lateral internal sphincterotomy for chronic or non-healing fissures
  • Fissurectomy or flap surgery in rare, severe cases
Scott Liu

About the Expert

Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do anal fissures heal on their own?

Some do, especially with a high-fiber diet and stool softeners. If pain or bleeding lasts more than 4-6 weeks, it's time to see a doctor.

How are fissures different from hemorrhoids?

Fissures are small tears in the skin around the anus, while hemorrhoids are swollen veins. They can occur together but need different treatments.

Do fissures cause itching?

Yes. Healing skin can itch. Avoid scratching and use cool sitz baths to ease discomfort.

Are fiber supplements safe?

Yes. Psyllium and methylcellulose are gentle and effective. Be sure to drink plenty of water when taking them.

Will I need surgery?

Most anal fissures respond well to creams, diet changes, or Botox injections. Surgery is reserved for severe or chronic cases.

How fast will I feel better?

Many patients notice significant relief within 1-2 weeks of starting treatment.

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