An anal abscess is a collection of infected fluid or pus around the rectum or anus. Symptoms include pain, inflammation, constipation, and discharge of pus.
With prompt diagnosis and effective treatment, most anal abscesses do not pose long-term health problems.
Most anal abscesses respond by surgically draining the infected fluid. Untreated or advanced anal abscesses can lead to anal fistulas.
This article describes the causes and diagnosis of anal abscess, as well as the most effective treatments and prevention strategies.
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The anal canal connects the rectum and anus, and the canal connects to the perianal skin at the anal rim. Perianal skin surrounds the anal verge.
anal abscess
People with an anal abscess may experience the following symptoms:
- continuous throbbing pain
- inflammation or swelling
- Redness or other discoloration around the anus
- Sensation of tenderness in the anal area
- constipation
- Pus leaking from an abscess
Due to obstruction of the anal glands and subsequent infection,
Depending on the specific medical condition, increase risk Anal abscess. These include:
These abscesses occur
Not everyone who is at high risk for an anal abscess will develop one. However, people with symptoms of anal abscess should discuss co-occurring health conditions with their health care professional.
Doctors may begin diagnosing an anal abscess with a digital rectal exam. This test begins by visually inspecting the outside of the anus. A gloved finger is then inserted into the rectum using a medical lubricant to minimize discomfort.
A doctor can determine whether an anal abscess is present by digitally examining the rectum. The doctor may order imaging tests to better determine the location of the abscess fluid.
CT scan is general Imaging techniques for visualizing anal abscesses. A CT scan can identify areas where pus from an abscess has spread.CT scan with contrast dye can help distinguish Between different types of abscesses.
Another common imaging technique for diagnosing anal abscess is an MRI scan. MRI machines use large magnets to take images of the human body’s soft tissues.
Ultrasonography may also serve as an alternative to provide images of anal abscesses.
People with anal abscess should consult their doctor to learn more about the various diagnostic tests available.
Most often anal abscess respond Sufficient for surgical drainage. During this procedure, a medical professional makes an incision in the skin around the anus. Pus from the abscess drains through this incision.
People with mild abscesses can have this procedure done under local anesthesia in an outpatient clinic. More complex abscesses may require hospitalization and treatment with antibiotics.
People who are at higher risk of complications, such as people with diabetes or a weakened immune system, may need further care in the hospital to make sure they are responding well to treatment.
home therapy
After surgery, you can take steps to maximize your recovery at home. Many people recovering from abscess surgery advantage From a sitz bath after defecation. This warm bath will help cleanse the affected area.
It is also important to avoid constipation.
Although anal abscess surgery is usually sufficient to treat an abscess, certain complications may occur after this surgery.
According to research, 30-50% A percentage of people treated for anal abscesses develop anal fistulas. A fistula is an abnormal passageway that forms between the anal canal and the outer area around the anus. Warning signs of an anal fistula include nausea, vomiting, and pain.
doctors can
Prevention of complications
Cleaning the abscess regularly after surgery can reduce the risk of anal fistulas. Consistent dressing of the affected area can also prevent postoperative complications.
Antibiotic treatment after surgery can prevent the development of anal fistulas. A 2019 study found that people who received antibiotics after surgery for anal abscesses 36% less likely About the onset of anal fistula.
Possible ways to prevent anal fistulas
- Maintain a balanced diet that is low in added salt and sugar
- exercise regularly
- maintain a moderate weight
- avoid smoking
Learn more about recovering from fistula surgery.
People who have Crohn’s disease or have developed anal abscesses may still be at higher risk for anal fistulas due to other symptoms they experience.
People
An anal abscess is a collection of pus around the rectum or anal area. Infection of the anal glands is one of the main causes.
Certain health conditions can increase your risk of developing an anal abscess. These include obesity, diabetes, and Crohn’s disease.
The standard treatment for this condition is surgical drainage. However, people with anal abscess should work with their medical team to determine the best treatment option for them. With proper treatment and follow-up care, people with anal abscess can expect to make a full recovery.