Your anus and surrounding areas have several mucus-secreting glands. These glands serve a vital role in the health and function of the anal canal. When one of these anal glands becomes blocked and infected it leads to the formation of a collection of pus which is known as anal abscess. It is also commonly referred to as a Perianal abscess and anorectal abscess.
It is an extremely painful condition that often appears as a boil-like swelling near your anus. If the abscess does not heal on time, there can be the development of an anal fistula. Thus, it is important to consult the best gastroenterologist in Hyderabad to ensure timely treatment of the perianal abscess.
Most perianal abscesses occur when bacteria or feces (stool) become trapped inside one of the anal glands and get infected. There can be many other causes like:
The condition can also occur in toddlers and children due to a lack of cleanliness in the area, chronic constipation and a history of anal fissures.
Other risk factors include:
The most common and immediately noticeable symptom of this abscess is a swollen and tender boil near your anus. It may appear red and feel tender to the touch accompanied by throbbing and constant pain. Activities like sitting down, coughing, or having a bowel movement can worsen the pain.
Other signs and symptoms include:
In individuals who have inflammatory bowel diseases, the anal abscesses can be present deeper in the rectum. In such cases, there can be some pain or discomfort in the lower abdominal area.
Toddlers usually do not have many symptoms other than signs of discomfort or pain, which can make them irritable. A visible or palpable lump or nodule may also be seen around the anal area.
The condition is most likely underdiagnosed, as many patients mistake it for hemorrhoids and do not seek medical treatment. It’s crucial to consult the best gastroenterologist in Hyderabad if you have the aforementioned symptoms that indicate a perianal abscess.
In most cases, your doctor can diagnose the abscess by examining your anus externally and performing a digital rectal exam. During this exam, the doctor inserts a gloved and lubricated finger into your anus. Sometimes, when there are no visible signs of the abscess on the surface of your skin around the anus, a speculum (an instrument to examine body cavities or passages) may be used to have a better look.
In some cases, a Proctosigmoidoscopy may be advised. In this procedure, a flexible, narrow tube with a light and camera is inserted into your anus to inspect the area more closely. If the abscess lies deep in your rectum, an MRI, CT scan, or ultrasound might be recommended.
Perianal abscesses do not go away on their own without treatment. They should not even be drained by yourself as this can cause immense pain. The treatment should be performed at a doctor’s clinic or hospital which involves incision and drainage of the pus from the infected area. The doctor will use a numbing agent and a small scalpel or needle to drain superficial anal abscesses. The abscess cavity is irrigated with a saline solution
to clean out any remaining debris and reduce the bacterial load. In some cases, the abscess cavity is packed with sterile gauze to keep it open and allow continuous drainage. This helps prevent the abscess from re-forming. The procedure usually takes 15 to 20 minutes and does not require any hospitalization. If you have a large or deep abscess, you may require surgery with general anesthesia. A catheter (tube-like drain) may be placed for further drainage. In most cases, stitches are not needed and a bandage is placed over the area. A drained rectal abscess takes around 3 to 4 weeks to heal.
After the procedure, you will likely be prescribed medications for pain relief. If you are otherwise healthy, antibiotics are usually not needed. However, antibiotics may be necessary for people with diabetes or weakened immune systems. Laxatives or stool softeners may also be prescribed to prevent painful bowel movements. According to the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons, approximately 50 percent of people who have a perianal abscess will eventually develop an anal fistula.
If this happens, you may need fistula surgery. Fistulas often develop four to six weeks after an abscess is treated. In some cases, a fistula may not appear for several months or even years. Therefore, fistula surgery is often performed as a separate treatment, either outpatient or with a short stay in the hospital.
Perianal abscess is a painful condition that needs surgical draining. A delay in the treatment can lead to serious complications, such as an anal fistula, sepsis (a life-threatening condition caused by the body’s response to an infection) and Fournier’s gangrene (a rare but potentially deadly infection).
With years of experience in gastroenterology, Dr. K V Dinesh Reddy brings a wealth of knowledge and skill to accurately diagnose and effectively treat perianal abscesses. He closely monitors risk factors and manages any associated health conditions with precision and care so that chances of recurrence are highly reduced.
Dr K V Dinesh Reddy is the best hernia surgeon in Hyderabad with over 10 years of experience in hernia treatment.
He has treated hundreds of hernia patients which makes him the best hernia surgeon in Hyderabad and known as the Best Bariatric surgeon in Hyderabad.
He strongly believes that surgery should only be considered as a last resort and prefers a holistic approach to treatment. So, if a disease can be effectively treated with medication, he never recommends surgery.
After drainage, a perianal abscess usually takes about 3 to 4 weeks to heal completely. Healing time can vary depending on the size of the abscess and your overall health. Keeping the area clean and following your doctor’s instructions can help speed up recovery.
Yes, a perianal abscess can cause complications during pregnancy. The infection and pain can lead to discomfort and stress, affecting both the mother and baby. It’s important to see a doctor quickly for proper treatment. Prompt medical attention can help manage the abscess effectively and prevent further complications.
A perianal abscess, if not treated properly, can lead to long-term effects like chronic pain, recurring infections, and the development of an anal fistula. An anal fistula is an abnormal connection between the abscess and the skin. Proper medical treatment is crucial to avoid these complications and ensure complete healing.
After surgery for a perianal abscess, you can expect some pain and swelling for a few days. Your doctor will give you pain relief medication. Keep the area clean and dry, and follow any instructions from your doctor. Most people heal within a few weeks. Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities until you are fully recovered.
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