Best sleeping position for fissure (pillow, tips, diet )

If you have ever had an anal fissure, you know how painful and uncomfortable it can be. It can be nearly impossible to get a good night’s sleep due to the itching and bleeding to the intense pain.

If you are suffering right now and are looking at how to ease the discomfort so you can sleep, this article will give you some tips and tricks to help you get through until it heals.

What Is An Anal Fissure?

Before you can understand how to treat your fissure, you must first understand what a fissure is. An anal fissure is a tear in the anal cavity wall, usually from excessive pushing with a hard or large bowel movement.

Diarrhea can also cause inflammation which can lead to tearing. Although not considered a serious medical condition, fissures or hemorrhoids can cause bleeding, pain, and itching once they begin to heal.

Anal Fissure Diet

The first step to ensuring you can get a good night’s sleep with an anal fissure is diet. Since everything you put in your body has to come out, avoiding particular foods which could irritate the area when discharged will help you rest easier.

Avoid foods like popcorn, nuts, chips, and fatty foods that could cause constipation. You should also avoid caffeine when suffering from a fissure, which is good for sleep in general.

Eat plenty of fiber and drink as much water as possible to help keep bowels soft and easier to pass, which will help avoid nightly irritation and pain.

Soaks, Serums, And Ointments

Sitz Bath for Toilet Seat

Using a sitz bath can also be very beneficial in soothing pain and helping you sleep. A sitz bath is when you soak your anus in approximately three to four inches of water after using the bathroom or before bed, which will help keep the area clean and calm irritation.

You can purchase a sitz bath that fits over your toilet seat on Amazon. Using Epsom salts with it is optional but may provide extra relief and quicker healing.

Use serums

Another great option for soothing pain and making sleeping easier is using serums or ointments designed explicitly for fissures.

You never want to use a product designed for areas other than the rectum, as doing so could cause further pain and worsen the situation. Apply the ointment to a clean, dry surface right before bedtime.

Avoid moving around too much after application, so the product doesn’t rub off. Amazon offers different serums and ointments.

Easing Constipation Pain

Easing Constipation Pain

If you find yourself constipated before bedtime, you can try a laxative or suppository specifically designed for fissures. Using these can help ease pressure and lessen the corresponding pain. Available products include all-natural suppositories and laxatives that are easy on the stomach. Make sure to drink plenty of water to ensure you get the most out of the product.

Using a stool that elevates your legs and puts them into the squatting position when using the restroom effectively helps combat constipation. The position opens up your hips and allows fecal matter to move freely without being pinched.

Many people find sitting in this position alone completely relieves constipation without the use of medicines. You can purchase one on Amazon.

Once you have done everything you can to ease fissure pain before you get into bed, you can use the following tips to help make you comfortable enough to fall asleep and sleep through the night.

What To Wear To Bed

Firstly, you want to make sure you wear only loose-fitting cotton underwear and pajamas. Any other fabric will not allow for sufficient airflow, trapping in moisture and leading to more irritation and inflammation.

If held against an open wound like a fissure for many hours, trapped moisture may lead to an infection.

Opting for cotton sheets will give you an even better chance of wicking moisture away and keeping you dry throughout the night.

Sleeping Position For Fissure

Fissure pain and haemorrhoids are worse at night due to the pressure of sitting and standing throughout the day.

People find that lying on their backs is incredibly uncomfortable and puts added pressure on the area. Sleeping on your left side with your legs bent at a ninety-degree angle helps relieve pressure and keeps your hips from pressing against your rectum. This position simulates a squat, the recommended position for all bowel movements.

You want to make sure you use a pillow between your legs when in the above sleeping position to stop hip strain and maintain the correct positioning. Make sure the pillow is not too flat, as this defeats the purpose.

Likewise, an overstuffed pillow could make it difficult to get comfortable as you may feel like you are turning over. There are pillows specifically designed for this position on amazon

If you cannot comfortably sleep on your side, sleeping on your stomach may also help relieve pressure against your anus. For an added benefit, you can try putting a pillow underneath your hips to elevate your backside slightly and offer added support to the area.

How to Treat Anal Fissure

frequently asked questions

How can I make sleeping with an anal fissure more comfortable?

To make sleeping with an anal fissure more comfortable, try sleeping on your side with your knees slightly bent or on your stomach with a pillow under your hips. Use pillows strategically to support your body and relieve pressure on the affected area. Practicing good hygiene, using topical treatments as prescribed, and taking warm baths or sitz baths before bed can also help alleviate pain and discomfort.

Are there any specific products that can help with sleeping comfort?

While there are no specific products designed solely for sleeping with an anal fissure, using pillows for support can be beneficial. Placing a pillow between your legs or under your hips can provide cushioning and relieve pressure on the anal area. Additionally, some people find donut-shaped cushions helpful for sitting or lying down comfortably during the day.

Should I avoid certain sleeping positions with an anal fissure?

It’s generally recommended to avoid sleeping on your back as it can increase pressure on the anal area. Instead, opt for side sleeping or sleeping on your stomach with proper support. However, the best sleeping position may vary from person to person, so it’s important to find what works best for you and provides the most comfort.

How long does it take for an anal fissure to heal?

The healing time for an anal fissure can vary depending on the severity of the fissure and individual factors. In many cases, anal fissures heal within a few weeks with proper care and treatment. However, it’s important to follow up with your healthcare provider for an accurate assessment of your specific situation and to monitor the healing progress.

When should I seek medical help for my anal fissure and sleep issues?

If you are experiencing severe pain, persistent bleeding, or worsening symptoms despite self-care measures, it is advisable to seek medical help. Additionally, if your sleep issues are significantly affecting your quality of life or if you have concerns about your condition, consult with a healthcare professional for a proper evaluation and guidance.

how to sleep after fissure surgery

After undergoing fissure surgery, it is important to take proper care of yourself during the recovery period, including paying attention to your sleeping position. Here are some tips on how to sleep after fissure surgery:

  1. Follow your surgeon’s instructions: It is crucial to follow your surgeon’s post-operative instructions regarding sleeping positions and any specific recommendations they may have provided. They will consider your specific case and surgery technique.

  2. Choose a comfortable position: Find a sleeping position that is comfortable and puts minimal pressure on the surgical area. Sleeping on your side or back is generally recommended after fissure surgery.

  3. Use pillows for support: Place pillows strategically to provide support and relieve pressure on the surgical area. You can place a pillow under your knees if you sleep on your back or between your legs if you sleep on your side. This can help maintain a more comfortable alignment and reduce strain.

  4. Maintain proper hygiene: Ensure that you keep the surgical area clean and dry before going to bed. Following your surgeon’s instructions on wound care and hygiene is important for healing.

  5. Be cautious when changing positions: When changing positions during sleep, do so slowly and gently to avoid any sudden movements or strain on the surgical area. Take your time and listen to your body’s cues.

  6. Use additional aids if recommended: Your surgeon may suggest using additional aids, such as special cushions or supports, to help you maintain a comfortable sleeping position. Follow their recommendations and use these aids as instructed.

  7. Follow a balanced diet and proper hydration: Eating a balanced diet rich in fiber and staying hydrated can help promote regular bowel movements and prevent constipation, which can be beneficial for the healing process.

Remember to consult your surgeon or healthcare provider for personalized advice on sleeping positions after fissure surgery. They will provide specific recommendations based on your unique situation and surgical procedure.

Final Thoughts

If you have been suffering from anal fissures, it can seem like the pain will never go away, and you won’t get a good night’s sleep again. You can find comfort and rest even while dealing with an active fissure.

Make sure you stick to a diet free of food that can cause irritation, eat plenty of fiber and drink a substantial amount of water. After every bowel movement and before bed, use a sitz bath with optional Epsom salts to clean, soothe, and promote healing.

Apply serums or ointments designed for the rectum generously and use laxatives, suppositories, or a squatting stool when needed for constipation. Only wear loose-fitting cotton underwear and pajamas with cotton sheets to ensure adequate airflow and moisture-wicking.

To ease pressure from standing all day, lay on your left side with your legs bent at a ninety-degree angle with a pillow between them for support. If you prefer to sleep on your stomach, place a pillow under your hips to help elevate and support your backside.

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