by Luka » 20 Mar 2013, 00:18
Just wanted to update everyone on my progress with Diltiazem. I've been on it almost 9 weeks now and the pain is almost gone (*knocks on wood*). I still have mild pain now and again, which tells me the fissure is still there, but is healing. I can still feel the tag inside when applying the Diltiazem, but it seems to have shrunk a little. I'm guessing the tag never goes away or takes a while to disappear.
I'm unsure when to stop the Diltiazem, though. I don't want to stop it too soon and have problems. Maybe I should stay on it for about three more weeks (making it 12 weeks total for me). I just fear developing a rash or anything... in which case, I'd obviously have to quit it right away. I called my CRS's office about how long I should stay on this, but they weren't very helpful and I can't afford another appointment right now (no health insurance and I have important dental bills to pay at the moment).
Anyway, I'm happy to be healing and that the pain has lessened even more, but I'm still very nervous about possibly re-tearing and having another flare-up. I'm still keeping up my very healthy diet (fruits, veggies, and whole grains, with chicken and fish) and drinking a LOT of water every single day. I have, however, lost a lot of weight (I'm currently at about 98 lbs) and it shows. I really hope I can gain some weight back soon, but with a diet like this, it's very difficult. I really don't like being all boney-looking.
I also haven't had regular (non-anal, of course) sex or anything of that sort including orgasms yet... in about three months. My worry has been getting me down and I know it's taking a major toll on my relationship. I don't want to go through this again and risk a re-tear. Guess I will pray about it and try to take it slow.
There is hope with all this and I highly recommend giving the creams a try, if you can tolerate them. I believe the Diltiazem has definitely helped in my healing process (along with the healthy diet, water, and stress reduction).
January 2013 - Diagnosed with fissure. Eventually turned chronic.
History of IBS and anxiety disorder, along with fear of using bathrooms other than my own caused it.
Tried Diltiazem, but eventually developed a rash.
LIS surgery scheduled August 26th.