Thanks so much, Val. It really helps to hear from people who have been through it. I do expect to be in pain, but the worst pain I had before was from the fissure spasms, so I'm thinking that as long as the burning isn't an issue, I will be able to handle the post-surgery pain (tough talk now!). About how long did it take you to recovery from your first one, in the sense of being able to do things again?
It really would be good to know why this keeps happening to you, Val. You've been through so much, it would be so nice to see you healed for good. I suppose over-washing can make the tissue friable, but perhaps the fistula form from another poorly healed fissure? Did your doc give you any idea of why this one is higher than the other one? Man, it is so frustrating when there's no explanation, especially when you do everything right.
I'm so glad you're not in as much pain today. That's wonderful. I know you're right that tomorrow can be bad again, but the good days will start to outnumber the bad days. (Yeah, easy for me to say! I'll try to keep that in mind when it's my turn!)
I'll keep telling myself that recovery will be easier than what I've already been through. That does seem to be the consensus from the posts here. I'm sure I'll be whining a lot here, though, because I really don't like pain!
I can't even express how much I appreciate your support and all the help I've gotten from the forum - you guys are lifesavers!