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| What is it? |
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| An abscess (collection of pus due to infection) that develops in the area around the anus and rectum. They occur more frequently in men and in people with digestive diseases. They may occur on the edge of the anal opening or deeper in the rectum. |
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| Causes |
| Common bacteria such as staphylococci and E. coli are most common cause. Fungal infections sometime cause abscesses. |
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| Signs and Symptoms |
| * Rectal redness. |
| * Swelling in superficial abscesses. |
| * Rectal tenderness. |
| * Throbbing pain. |
| * Fever and other toxic symptoms with deep abscesses. |
| * Pain, when having bowel movement. |
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| Risk Factors |
| * People with a digestive disease. |
| * Injections for internal hemorrhoids. |
| * Enema tip abrasions. |
| * Puncture wounds form eggshells or fish bones. |
| * Foreign objects. |
| * Prolapsed hemorrhoid. |
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| Prevention |
| * Avoid constipation. |
| * Don't use enemas. |
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| Prognosis |
| Slow healing depending on extent of disease, complete healing by 6 months if no complications. |
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| General Measures |
| * Diagnosis is determined by a physical examination. |
| * Treatment involves surgery to open and drain the abscess. |
| * Local anesthetic used during surgical procedure. For abscess deeper in rectum, a general anesthetic is frequently used. |
| * Sitz baths every 2-4 hours after surgery. Sit in a bathtub with 6-8 inches of warm water, for 20 minutes. |
| * Heating pad, heat lamp or warm compress as needed for pain. |
| * Prevent constipation. Don't suppress the urge to have a bowel movement, even though you may anticipate pain. Constipation can increase pressure at the wound site. |
| * Follow doctor's instructions for dressing changes and keeping surgical area clean. |
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| Medication |
| * Antibiotics or antifungal medications may be prescribed for infection. |
| * Stool softening laxatives to help prevent constipation. |
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| Activity |
| Return to normal activities as soon as possible after surgery. |
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| Diet |
| An increase in fiber in the diet may help reduce risk of constipation. |
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| Possible Complications |
| * Possible anal fistula. |
| * Recurrence of abscess if underlying cause not corrected. |
