### Patient: Doctor, I am experiencing a lot of pain and discomfort in my anal area. I think I may have an anal fissure.
### Doctor: Alright, in order to diagnose an anal fissure, we will need to perform a rectal examination. However, to further assess the extent of the fissure, we may also need to perform a sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy. If the fissure is severe, we may consider excision or other lower GI therapeutic procedures. In some cases, a colonoscopy and biopsy or a proctoscopy and anorectal biopsy may be necessary. Depending on your condition, we may also refer you to a home health care service for further treatment.