Hi Everyone;
I am so glad to have found you all! I've spent hours reading the forum today, the day after my official diagnosis of an AF. I can't believe the amazing amount of support and information here, and have already learned so much!
Three years ago I was referred to a specialist for ligation of internal hemorrhoids after an extended period of discomfort. This was not fun, but seemed to relieve my symptoms for a couple of years. Twelve weeks ago, around New Year's, I developed a terrible case of bronchitis, leading to an antibiotic prescription, leading to an upset stomach, leading ultimately to an evening of tears and trauma on the toilet. I don't think I've ever been in that much pain or been so frightened as when I saw all that blood. I saw two different doctors, received a prescription for hydro cortisone suppositories, and a promise for a referral to a specialist (my CRS died just a week before this - worst of luck.) Four weeks later, I was feeling better and then...
Another terrible day, 8 hours in the emergency room and ultimately a diagnosis of an AF.
Reading your stories has awakened me to what I never knew were symptoms. I've probably been dealing with sphincter spasms for a few years now, and have always written it off as being a one-time thing. The biggest problem, I now realize, is that nobody talks about this - so how do we know what is normal? It took an incredible amount of pain for me to even ask for help, and it is only now that the medication is taking effect that I realize how uncomfortable I really was.
I really hope that this is a short mess with you all here (no offense) but I am grateful already for your presence and wisdom.
Thanks!