Embarrassing Bodies - Itchy bum indicates anal fissure

Embarrassing Bodies - Itchy bum indicates anal fissure

Esther's son Kaelan has an inexplicably itchy bum, but having checked for worms, and tried all sorts of lotions and potions, Esther is at a loss. Dr Dawn takes a swab and poo sample from Kaelan and sends it off for analysis, as suspected, the results come back negative for threadworm or any other infection. So Kaelan is sent to see specialist paediatric surgeon, Ms Anouk Van Der Avoirt, who spots the problem. Kaelan has an anal fissure, a little tear which can be caused by doing a hard poo. A simple procedure is needed to correct the problem, under general anaesthetic the anus is physically stretched for 2 minutes, a laxative is prescribed to help Kaelan to do a poo. And Esther is overjoyed that a solution has finally been found! This new series explores the conditions and ailments that leave many of us a little red-faced and aims to de-stigmatise common complaints.