Medicines for Anal abscess

What it is

An anal (perianal) abscess is a painful collection of pus that forms near the anus or in the surrounding tissues, usually caused by a bacterial infection, often starting in one of the small glands inside the anal canal. It causes a swollen, red, hot and very tender lump near the anus, with throbbing pain that is often constant and worse when sitting or opening the bowels, and there may be fever and feeling generally unwell. It can develop over a few days. It is more common in people with certain conditions (such as Crohn's disease or diabetes) but can affect anyone. Because it is a collection of pus, it does not clear up on its own and antibiotics alone will not cure it — it needs to be drained. After treatment, some anal abscesses are found to be connected to a small tunnel (an anal fistula), which may need further treatment. Prompt treatment relieves the severe pain and prevents the infection spreading.

How it is treated

The main treatment for an anal abscess is prompt drainage of the pus, usually by a minor surgical procedure (incision and drainage), which relieves the pain quickly and allows the infection to heal; this is often done as an emergency or urgent procedure. Antibiotics may be used in addition in some cases (for example with spreading infection or in people at higher risk), but they are not a substitute for drainage. After drainage, the wound is kept clean and usually heals over a couple of weeks, with advice on wound care and pain relief. Because some abscesses are linked to an anal fistula, follow-up may be arranged, and any fistula treated. Rarely, an untreated or severe infection in this area can spread and become serious, so prompt medical attention for a painful anal lump with fever is important. The reassuring message is that an anal abscess is treated effectively by draining it, which quickly relieves the severe pain.