by Scientist2516 » 16 Feb 2014, 21:30
Hi Tony,
Don't worry too much, it's really unlikely to be cancer. You've seen a proctologist, and he didn't suggest tests for cancer, so try to put that out of your mind.
I know it's really easy to get obsessive about this. The pain, looking on the internet, not knowing enough about what's happening to you - it all adds up to obsessive thoughts. I've found this forum to be very helpful, with tips and diet advice, and also supportive people who know what you are suffering and don't judge you for being a wuss, or whatever. Believe me, this pain has strong guys crying on the floor.
So, about the proctologist -
They don't usually look inside, because the instrument they use for that (an anuscope) can hurt quite badly and might even tear you a bit more. When you see him next time, ask for advice on changing your diet and laxatives for getting soft stools. Also, ask him if you can have diltiazem or nifedipine or nitroglycerine to relax your anus. You can't relax your internal anal sphincter on your own - you don't have conscious control over it - nobody does, so telling you to relax is not helpful. You can relax your external sphincter, and it's probably a good idea to practice relaxing when you find yourself getting tense and worried. But the internal sphincter just isn't controlled that way.
It's kind of a common theme here that people get fissures when they are under stress. Maybe it's the stress, or maybe it's that when people are stressed they tend to let themselves go - eat more junk food and alcohol and caffeine which make you dehydrated and have hard dry stools. You need to find a diet that will give you soft regular stools. You must NEVER strain on the toilet.
I hope this helps! Good luck!
Nifedipine/lidocaine, no help
Diltiazem, effective, but caused major rash
Nitroglycerine, effective.
Topical estrogen for final healing.
Gentle heat to bottom - pain relief, muscle relaxant
Kondremul mineral oil
Time - lots of time.
Status - Healed!