Perianal Abscess Surgery: Is It Necessary or Can You Avoid It?

A perianal abscess is an uncomfortable disease that occurs when a pus-filled sac forms next to the anus. This will lead to swelling, redness, and pain. But do you always need perianal abscess surgery to treat it? Or can it go away on its own? Let’s find out!

What is a Perianal Abscess?

A perianal abscess is an infection that leads to collection of pus near or around the anus. For you, it might feel as a swollen lump that is painful and slightly hot as compared to surrounding skin.

What causes a perianal abscess?

Perianal abscesses most commonly occur secondary to a crypto glandular infection, a gland that is found in your anal canal. That means bacteria get into little glands near the anus and infect them that leads to a collection of pus.

Signs and symptoms of a perianal abscess

If you have a perianal abscess, you might feel

• Pain and tenderness over and near the anus (perianal pain)
• Swollen lump near the anus
• If burst, pussy drainage.
• Fever and chills (in serious cases)

These are the symptoms, immediately seek a medical attention if you think you have a perianal abscess to avoid complication.

Do You Have a Perianal Abscess That Needs Surgery?

There are certain reasons why you might need surgery. Lets find out the indications

When Surgery is Necessary

Surgery may be recommended by doctors if:

• If your abscess is huge and extremely painful.
• If this is the second or third time you are having the abscess.
• If your abscess is continually growing and now it is interfering with your daily routine work.
• If you have formed a fistula-in-ano (a tunnel that forms between the abscess and the skin). This may be evident with a pussy discharge from inside the anal canal

If you have any of this situation, you should consult a doctor (surgeon) who will do incision and drainage, where they cut the abscess open and let the pus come out. If you are looking for minimally invasive option for your perianal abscess especially laser surgery then consider Dr. Abdullah Iqbal who is the best and the 1^st laser proctologist in Karachi, Pakistan. As he is the best perianal abscess doctor in Karachi you can trust his expertise for better results.

When You Might Avoid Perianal Abscess Surgery

• Usually antibiotics aren’t the first choice but if your doctor has prescribed them you may consider giving it a try.
• If this is the first time you are having it
• If the swelling is very small and away from anal canal
• If you have already tried some home remedies such as avoiding spicy food and taking high fiber diet and it has helped you
• Or you have tried warm sitz baths and painkillers and you feel relieved.

In all the above situations you might try to avoid abscess surgery. But if the abscess isn’t getting better, get yourself to a doctor!

How to Prevent a Perianal Abscess at Home

If your abscess is small and minor, follow these self-care tips:

Warm Sitz Baths

• Soak in warm water for 5-15 minutes several times a day.
• This can alleviate perianal pain and reduce the swelling or if the abscess has already burst then will promote drainage of pus.

Good Hygiene

• Keep the area clean and dry.
• Use pyodine (antiseptic solution) when necessary for cleaning
• Use antiseptic soap especially white and try not to scrub too hard.

Pain Relief

• Take painkillers such as ibuprofen (if prescribed by a doctor).

Eat a High-Fiber Diet

• Avoid constipation by eating fruits, vegetables and whole grains
• Drink plenty of water!

These steps could help, but they are not effective and the lump is increasing in size and becoming more painful, seek immediate perianal abscess treatment in Karachi.

How to Reduce Your Risk of a Perianal Abscess

To reduce the risk for an abscess next to the anus:

• Keep the area clean.
• Do not strain while having a bowel movement
• Avoid constipation by eating fiber-full
• Consult a doctor if you notice any unusual lumps or swelling.

Note: If you have recurring abscesses, you might be suffering from fistula in ano

When to See a Doctor about a Perianal Abscess

You should see a doctor if:

• The lump is large and extremely painful.
• You have fever and chills.
• Pus drains continuously from a fistula near the anus.
• Because of the abscess pain, you have difficulty sitting or walking.

Final Thoughts

A perianal abscess is a painful condition and if not treated early, can lead to serious complications such as perianal sepsis or fistula-in-ano. Some mild cases can be treated at home, but many require surgery. Don’t wait — get medical care if there are signs of extensive disease! For a proper care, Find Top Clinic and top doctor for Anal Abscess in Karachi or go to hospital for emergency perianal abscess treatment in Karachi