Posted 1/17/2012 2:39 PM (GMT 0)
I could have prevented my three year long ordeal IF i only knew. There was a bump that i felt only when i showered when i lathered myself with soap. it felt like a side of a tennis ball. Regardless, the bump was a cyst full of liquid. It popped one day causing a huge abscess deep inside my perineal area back in 2009. The ER did two cut and drains from the infected area to remove the puss. Then a third procedure where the Dr.'s had to cut out my infected tissue area which left me a 5 inch deep x 4 inch wide whole in my buttock. The healing was a slow process. The worst was the packing and cleaning my wound. After 6-8 weeks of healing, i discovered a little red pump that leaked. after several tests, it was determined that i had a anal fistula. I tried to live with it but the draining go worse. there were good and bad days, meaning some days the fistula was clogged which caused pressure and it was very tender. I felt ill and weak all the time. every evening, i would feel like i was going to get the flu the next day b/c i had body aches and my joints hurt. In the morning, i felt better and by late afternoon, all my aches and pains would return. In Nov 2009, i had a fistulectomy with seton placement. The my buttock flesh was infected again and i was left with a big flesh hole. however, the consequence of my anal sphincter muscle being cut was soooo painful. The doctor did not prepare me for the PAIN and i suffered with incontinence. when i had felt i had a bowl movement, it was almost immediate. I would RUN to the bathroom and in high pain. It got better over time both pain decreased and able to hold my bowl movement. After 6-8 weeks of healing. I discovered the fistula reformed!!!! i was extremely upset. All that pain and my sphincter muscle forever scared. I asked my Dr. Why? I did some asking around. I actually prayed to find the doctor that could heal me. I DID!! I was lead to a new doctor in Denver, CO. It took 3 months for my first initial appointment. I gave her my big file but she wanted to see what was going on. After one look, she said something like, "I know what is going on" and told me i need to have surgery asap. I had another fistulectomy and infected tissues removed. I didn't have to pack the wound but just warm sit bath a few times a day. The recovery went smoothly and again painful. I did have little issue with incontinence but not terrible. she referred me to a physical therapist specializing in the pelvic area. I was amazed how much the ladies where able to help me. My muscles where is spasm. I am forever grateful and my wonderful Dr. gave me my life back! I feel healthy and energetic again. I did have a colonoscopy to rule out Chron's disease. I share this with you as when i was suffering with this abscess and fistula, i searched for answers and cures.