Anal fissures are small tears in the lining of the lower rectum and can be quite painful and uncomfortable. They are often caused by hard or large stools, constipation, or other strains. One of the treatments your doctor might prescribe for an anal fissure is nitroglycerin ointment. This medication helps to relax the anal sphincter muscle, which can aid in healing and alleviate pain.
How to Apply Nitroglycerin Ointment for Anal Fissures
In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the process of correctly applying nitroglycerin ointment for anal fissures.
What You’ll Need:
- Nitroglycerin ointment (usually a 0.2% to 0.4% concentration)
- Clean hands or disposable gloves
- A mirror (optional, for better visibility)
Step-by-Step Application:
- Wash Your Hands: Before you start, ensure your hands are clean by washing them thoroughly with soap and water.
- Clean the Area: Gently clean the anal area with mild soap and warm water. Pat dry gently with a soft cloth. Avoid rubbing, as this could exacerbate the fissure.
- Measure the Ointment: Usually, a pea-sized amount of nitroglycerin ointment is recommended, but always follow your doctor’s advice. Some tubes might come with a measuring line on the cap, which can be useful.
- Apply the Ointment:
- Use your fingertip or a cotton swab to gently apply the ointment to the fissure. If you’re having difficulty locating it, a mirror can be handy.
- You don’t need to insert your finger deep into the anus; just ensure the ointment covers the fissure.
- Clean Excess Ointment: If there’s any excess ointment on the skin around the fissure, gently wipe it away.
- Wash Your Hands Again: Ensure you wash your hands thoroughly after applying the ointment, even if you’ve used gloves.
Important Points to Remember:
- Frequency: Typically, nitroglycerin ointment is applied 2-3 times daily or as directed by your doctor.
- Side Effects: Some people might experience headaches after applying the ointment. This is because nitroglycerin causes vasodilation (widening of blood vessels). If you experience severe headaches or any other side effects, contact your doctor.
- Duration: The duration of treatment varies. Your doctor will guide you on how long to use the ointment. Ensure you follow up with them to monitor your progress.
- Other Medications: Inform your doctor of all the medications you are currently taking, as nitroglycerin can interact with some drugs.
- Storage: Store the nitroglycerin ointment as instructed, usually at room temperature away from light and moisture.
Conclusion
Using nitroglycerin ointment for anal fissures can be an effective way to promote healing and reduce pain. Always ensure you’re applying it correctly and following your doctor’s advice. If you don’t notice improvement after a few weeks or experience worsening symptoms, reach out to your healthcare provider.
