Hi,
My name is Ryan, and I have loved working with computers since I was young. I lost my job in 2008 (Sr. software engineer making 95K/yr) at the age of 29 because of the emotional pain associated with chronic pain. I recently made a full recovery from the levator ani syndrome and so returned to work on May 18, 2015. After 12 days, I was a mess again. No fissures, but the rectal pain was just too upsetting. I found myself taking frequent breaks to walk around the parking lot as the panic attacks started to come back -- all because I cannot stand hurting in that area.
So, it appears that it's caused by stress. I have Bipolar disorder, but it's never actually stopped me from doing the things I want to do. What stops me is the levator ani syndrome. I like the idea of being around people and socializing, but that also increases my stress level. I also have ADHD and autism spectrum disorder.
I spend my time doing medical research about mood disorders and looking through forums like this one, and doing other computer hobbies such as programming software and games.
I feel that dilation is the best tool for combating rectal pain. Swimming is a great way to relax.
I feel that there is merit to taking methylphenidate for a period of time in order to promote relaxation and reduce pain.
In the past I have been so angry with medical professionals for being of so little help, but I have found physical therapy to be effective. I do not recommend doing kegels though, as they might suggest doing. We must be out own physical therapists and learn how our bodies work, and for me it has become an obsession.
I'm happy to be on this board and thanks for reading.