DEAR DR. GOTT: I was diagnosed several months ago with a fissure. I was given nitroglycerin ointment, which gives me a headache, even using small amounts. I have increased my fibre and water intake and am using stool softeners. I am still having pain every day and some bleeding.

The doctor has said the only other solution is surgery. What are your thoughts on taking mineral oil?

Thank you for any help you can give me. This is really making me miserable.

DEAR READER: An anal fissure is a painful tear in the tissues of the anus. Although fissures can occasionally become infected, those near the anus are particularly prones to this. I recommend surgical repair because you appear to have exhausted all your nonsurgical options.

The operation is almost always successful and free of complications. Ask your physician to recommend a colleague who is experienced in colorectal surgery. Prior to deciding about surgery, you should have a discussion about the surgery itself, the potential for side effects and a review of other options of which I am not aware.

To give you related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report "An Informed Approach to Surgery." Other readers who would like a copy should send a long, self-addressed, stamped envelope and $2 to Newsletter, PO Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092. Be sure to mention the title.

DEAR DR. GOTT: Here is another home-remedy tidbit for your readers. I don't know whether it will work for everyone, but it worked for my husband.

He is 64 years old and in excellent health, 5 feet 11 inches, 155 pounds, low blood pressure, low cholesterol, just retired and is still very active.

He has not had any hair on the top of his head for about five years, even though he has plenty on the sides. About two months ago, he started using my hair shampoo and conditioner and uses it every day because he showers every day. His hair has since started growing back in on the top of his head at a fast rate.

The shampoo is TRESemme Silk Protein Healthy Volume, and the conditioner is TRESemme Vitamin E for dry or damaged hair.

I use the conditioner about twice a month, and my hair is very thick.

We can't think of any other change he has made that is helping his hair growth, so we are staying with these products. I hope you will give this to your loyal readers. Keep up the good work.

DEAR READER: Male baldness is one of the most common consequences of aging, even in a man of 64. I was delighted to receive your letter sharing your husband's success. Now, since I am publishing your letter, we need to wait until some of my readers, men and women, have had an opportunity to try this treatment. I'll follow up when I get feedback in several months.