Hemorrhoids vs fissure vs something else

[fds]

Hi,

    I am having a rather bothersome problem--any thoughts are much appreciated.  Usually bowel movements are mostly normal.  I have been increasing the fiber (from food and Metamucil)in my diet and drink lots of water and take Colace daily as well.  But, every once in a while I notice bright red blood on the toilet paper--it is never mixed with the stool.  This happens infrequently but it does cause concern to me.  When the blood is on the paper it is more than just a few drops.  Also, during the elimination process I (sometimes) can sense what feels like a small tear near the anal opening.  I know that points to a fissure but other symptoms do not.  I sometimes (most times lately) have trouble even sitting down in a chair comfortably.  It's not a deep, acute pain but rather a dull ache in the rectal area, so I try and not sit for long times.

  Here is what I have been doing.  Taking Colace, Metamucil, sometimes Lactulose, dringking lots of water, trying to exercise more and eating more fiber than I am used to.  Is there anything else I can do? Or any thoughts about my condition would be appreciated.

Thanks,

Francis

[EJ]

Ask your doctor to call you in some Proctofoam for hemmoroids (hemorrhoids), or you could try some over the counter hemmoroid medicine.  Also, try soaking in warm baths and keep up the fiber increase and note that when doing so, this may cause some increased pressure in the rectal area due to increased gas caused by fiber.

[dougout]

You might want to check for abcess (abscess) or fistulas, The pain you describe sounds like something I went through back in feb. Does it hurt you to walk. I would straight out go to a specialist, after what I went through with my hmo. spend the money if you have to, I wish I went to a specialists from the get go. Good luck but really get an expert opinion.

[ton618]

A related discussion, hemroids was started.