I developed my first AF while I was in the hospital 3 years ago; was on mega IV antibiotics and consequently had severe diarrhea. When I was finally discharged to home I started noticing the pain; slight at first but then became brutal. Why does diarrhea cause AFs?
And by the way, I think I am almost healed from the latest (2nd) episode. What worked for me was this: Daily (3-4) doses of Benefiber (Costco generic brand-dextrin), along with twice daily doses of stool softener (generic brand of Colace which is Ducosate Sodium). Lots of liquids during the day; applying generous lidocaine cream before and after a BM, and also the nitroglycerin cream after each BM. It seems the very slight pain that I have now has moved more to the exterior, just inside the anus. The lidocaine cream also seems to not only stop the pain, but also lubricates.
I have a colonoscopy scheduled for next week, and I am absolutely terrified that the procedure will possibly traumatize and/or re-injure the AF. Yet, I know sooner or later a comprehensive exam of the area is necessary. I think I will reschedule the colonoscopy a few months down the road. I'm doing better, at least for now. Is there another exam procedure for this area other than the colonoscopy?