When is GP consultation recommended for anal fissure?

An anal fissure is a small tear in the skin around the anus. It can cause sharp pain during a bowel movement, burning pain afterwards, and a small amount of bright-red blood on toilet paper or the outside of stool. Hard stools, straining and repeated diarrhoea can stop the area healing.

Arrange a GP review if pain is making you avoid passing stool, bleeding keeps returning, constipation is ongoing, or the problem has not settled. A clinician can examine the area carefully, check whether another condition could explain the symptoms, and recommend treatment to soften stool and relax or protect the affected skin.

Aim for soft stools by drinking enough fluid for your needs and gradually including fibre if it suits you. Avoid straining, allow time on the toilet, and do not ignore the urge to pass stool. A warm shallow bath may soothe discomfort. Ask a pharmacist or GP before using laxatives, creams or pain relief, especially if you are pregnant or take regular medicines.

At the appointment, describe when the pain starts, how long it lasts, the appearance of any blood, and changes in stool consistency. Learn more about [GP Consultation](/treatments/consultations-and-assessment/gp-consultation/).

Seek urgent care for heavy or continuous rectal bleeding, black or tarry stool, severe worsening pain, fever, pus, marked swelling, dizziness or fainting. Prompt assessment is also needed if abdominal pain, vomiting or inability to pass stool or gas accompanies the anal symptoms.

Ask whether the examination fits an anal fissure, what bowel routine will support healing, which product is appropriate and for how long, and what to do if symptoms return. Mention any weight change, persistent bowel habit change, inflammatory bowel disease, or previous anal procedures.