by Ever the Optimist » 31 May 2014, 14:10
Hi Alyssa,
Everything you describe continued for months and to this day, but there has been an overall reduction over the last 2.5 years in all the symptoms to the extent it's manageable and "normal". Sometimes, I go for days with very mild reminders of irritation but I also continue to go through flare-ups, when I have a few more noticeable days (not in terms of pain - just those twinges, itching, dull aches, rectal pressure) This I find is exacerbated by any form of straining/ diarrhoea. Soft but formed stools work best for me that pass easily but do not come "gushing" out too quickly or need to be forced in any way. Stress makes everything so, so much worse - My digestive system gets stressed, which generally leads to runny stools. Being in a calmer and sunnier place, makes a huge difference. The issue is compounded by two internal hems (the one I believe is a Sentinel pile), which can also become easily aggravated and don't help. The "Sentinel" one on my left-hand side (where the fissure was) is always the worst and although my busy lifestyle generally keeps me well distracted from the issue these days, I will sit down at some point in the evening (and most evenings) and become aware that I went through this hell 2.5 years ago through extra sensitivity in that area. This is what frustrates me so much! because I don't know if I truly will ever feel 100%. My sphincter is also not particularly tight...& sitting for me is also uncomfortable when I get flare-ups (particularly evenings when I'm trying to relax!)
Do you find that your pelvic floor therapy is making any difference?
Bear in mind though, that my fissure took over a year to heal unlike yours & that my internal piles don't help, so it could be that although full recovery for you may take a few months, it may well be a lot quicker than mine! :)
Chronic Fissure diagnosed December 2011
Healed by Diltiazem around Feb 2013
Anal Fistula followed burst abscess in June 2012
2 internal troublesome piles remain & suspected, but undiagnosed, ongoing Levator Ani type symptoms & flare-ups