Common causes include constipation, passing hard stools, chronic diarrhea, childbirth, and sometimes, conditions like Crohn's disease or anal infections.

Symptoms include sharp or burning pain during bowel movements, visible tears or cuts around the anus, and bright red blood on toilet paper or in the stool.

Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination by a doctor, possibly including a digital rectal exam or anoscopy to confirm the presence of fissures.

Minor fissures may heal on their own with dietary changes and proper hygiene practices. However, persistent or severe fissures may require medical intervention.

Treatment options range from conservative measures such as dietary fiber supplements and topical ointments to minimally invasive procedures like botulinum toxin injection or surgical options in severe cases.

Healing time varies depending on the severity of the fissure and the chosen treatment. With appropriate care, most fissures heal within a few weeks to a couple of months.

Yes, without proper preventive measures such as dietary modifications and addressing underlying causes like chronic constipation, fissures may recur.

Maintaining a high-fiber diet, staying hydrated, and avoiding straining during bowel movements can help prevent anal fissures from developing or recurring.