So, my latest visit with the CRS was interesting...to say the least. I've had about 4 visits and at none of these visits was the dr. able to properly examine me--for the usual locked-out sphincter reasons. Yesterday, I was examined thoroughly. Ouch.
Findings were not what he or I expected. After being lectured thoroughly about the source of anal pain and how it almost always stems from one source and not several, I was informed that my rectum looks like a war zone. Words to describe it were "not presenting as a typical fissure", "very raw with several areas of inflamed and torn tissue". CRS was unable to pinpoint if fissure, hemorroid or just plain tissue damage was the source of my pain. After being very informative and forthcoming and talkative at the start of the appointment, the Dr. looked kind of shocked and worried about what he saw. He wrote me a prescription for very strong steroid cream and is referring me to a surgeon--yes, I'm going to a CRS who no longer performs the surgery that he thinks I need, bummer. He also said that he didn't think the surgeon would be very happy to see the condition of my bum, which scared me but I was in such shock I didn't ask questions. I'm not to drink caffeine or alcohol or eat chocolate. Lots of water, and not to overdo the soluble fiber. The only thing he can recommend for pain is Tramadol, and even that must be used sparingly, as it can cause spasms.
So I've been treating a fissure for several months and this looks like it might be more serious than that. I just don't understand why this happened to me. Sure, I've been constipated in the past, but what on earth is causing this to happen to me? I did have banding done about 18 months ago, could it be that it was not done very well? Does anyone have experience with this type of diagnosis? I spent hours searching the web tonight, but can't find too much.
Ugh...I am growing very, very weary...
Hootinannie