Hello, I"m Susan
I"m 23, and a year ago this past January I was told I had an anal fissure. Being I university student not in a place with my normal doctor I been going to the clinic on campus. However I've seen 2 different doctors about it now. This is what I've been told so far:
1st doctor
-my fissure is very deep, but nothing she could do
- Her advice was basically simple, make sure I eat a lot of fibre and drink a lot of water. (the water drinking part is hard for me, I"m lucky to remember to drink 4 glasses a day)
- She did recommend a over the counter product, something meant for diaper rashes, to keep water from irritating the fissure. (basically a thick white paste)
- also to do a sitz bath for my bum daily.
I took this advice, for a while, I seemed to had healed up, but then the fall came and I started have trouble even sitting down at work. I was just in constant pain again. So I went back to the doctor.
2nd Doctor
- said basically same thing about the fissure.
- He actually told me it seemed to be being caused by my muscle there being too tight, so he told me to use a combination medication: .3% Nifedipine, and Lidocaine 2%.
- He told me if that did seem to be working after a month, then he would have to schedule me for surgery. (of course freaking me out, because I have never had surgery for anything, no broken bones, nothing wrong in my health really before, except sinuses)
It did seem to work for a bit there, but only one issue, I seemed to almost get too wet in between the cheeks after using it every night. This used to cause a really bad itchy feel, and I would scratch in my sleep because of it.
Now a few months later, it seems to be getting worst again. I'm afraid to go back to the clinic because I don't want surgery, and they haven't ever referred me to any specialist.
My bf only today found out his bleeding is being caused by hemorrids and has been using Proctosedyl, which can be used for anal fissures as well... so tempting to test it but cannot. However, the doctor he went to sent him to a specialist to make sure it was only hemorrids, and nothing else.. That way he would know exactly what is wrong and the right treatment. This got me thinking, when I visit the doctor for my normal check up I have (which is scheduled for next month) should I bring up the fact I am still have pain, and would like to see a specialist?

Oh by the way, I"m glad to have found this forum. I don't really have others to talk to here about this. My boyfriend can somewhat understand and wishes he could help but that's about it.

Hello Susan,
How long have you been using the Nifedipine for? Nifedipine has a side effect which cause skin irratation and itching but there are other alternatives available. In my opinion it seems way too soon for you to even consider surgery.
What is very important is to keep up the water and fibre diet, i understand that this can be a nuisance but its very important to adhere to this if you are to fully heal.
Oh and dont touch the Proctosedyl - it stings like hell and does not help fissures!!
Davo

Thanks for the warning about the Proctosedyl Davo!
I was using it constantly from Decemeber 1st, til about January 20th. (Then school work hit hard, and I forgot about applying the cream before bed.)
I'm trying to remember the diet again though, I noticed this past week I have reduced my water intake again. and I'm thinking about getting a fibre supplement to make sure I am getting enough fibre.

oh I forgot to say I only really started using it again two days ago, now that life has calmed down again for me to remember it.

My advice: DEMAND to see a specialist (i.e., a colorectal surgeon) for an evaluation. You want someone that deals with fissures on a daily basis. I cannot stress how important it is to see a specialist. Good luck!

Hey Sm,
Water is important and diet. You can try Miralax (movicol?) which helps soften stools.
I agree, see a CRS (colorectal surgeon) ASAP.
take care and get better!!!
pat