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To diagnose an anal fissure, your GP will ask you about your symptoms and the type of pain you have been experiencing. They may also about your toilet habits.
Physical examination
In order to confirm a diagnosis of an anal fissure, your GP will usually have to carry out a physical examination. They will need to examine your anus by gently parting your buttocks. In most cases, your GP will be able to see a fissure.
However, if they cannot see any signs of a fissure, they may press gently on the edge of your anus. If you have a fissure, you will normally experience some pain when gentle pressure is applied.
Your GP should not need to perform a rectal examination (where they insert a lubricated, gloved finger into your anus to feel for abnormalities) in order to diagnose an anal fissure.
If your GP feels that something more serious may be causing your fissure, you will normally be referred to a specialist for a more thorough investigation. Which specialist you are referred to will depend on the suspected cause of your fissure.
view information about Anal Fissure on www.nhs.co.uk »Important Notice
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