Can an Anal Abscess Be Cured Without Surgery?

What causes an Anal Abscess?

An anal abscess is a painful condition in which inflammation and pus develop near the anus. Most anal abscesses are caused by infection of the small anal glands.

The most common type of anal abscess is the perianal abscess. This often appears as a painful, boil-like swelling near the anus. It may be red in color and warm to the touch. Anal abscesses located in deeper tissues are less common and may be less detectable.

Can a Perianal Abscess Heal on its Own?

An anorectal abscess rarely goes away on its own or with antibiotics. In most cases, the doctor will need to drain the abscess, which is a relatively simple procedure that requires local anesthesia, a scalpel, and a pair of forceps, and is usually successful. The treatment of anal abscesses must be done as soon as one is aware of its existence. Because about 50% of patients who suffer from it will develop complications that may develop into a fistula. The result may be recurrent anal abscesses.

Is Perianal Abscess Dangerous?

In some cases, continuous drainage of the anal fistula occurs, and anal abscesses can recur, which requires immediate surgical intervention.

In general, neglecting the anal abscess leads to more pain and higher chances of contamination of this area and the risk of more serious complications to follow.

But after an anal abscess heals properly, the problem is unlikely to return. To prevent this, it is important to follow the advice of your colorectal doctor or surgeon.