How to differentiate external hemorrhoids from perianal abscesses

External hemorrhoids and perianal abscesses can be differentiated by symptom characteristics, palpation status and medical history analysis. External hemorrhoids are often manifested as swellings at the anal margin, usually accompanied by itching, discomfort or occasional pain, but without obvious inflammatory manifestations of redness, swelling, heat and pain; while perianal abscesses are an acute suppurative infection around the anus, with typical symptoms of severe pain, redness, swelling, and skin heat. In severe cases, they can cause fever and general discomfort. Accurate differentiation requires timely medical diagnosis.

External hemorrhoids are mostly caused by varicose veins and constipation that lead to the expansion of the anal venous plexus. The causes of their formation include genetic factors, environmental factors such as long-term sitting or standing, and physiological factors such as increased abdominal pressure caused by pregnancy or obesity. If there are no obvious symptoms of external hemorrhoids, they can be relieved by warm water sitz baths and keeping bowel movements unobstructed. Do not forcefully squeeze the swelling. If there is local bleeding and obvious pain in the external hemorrhoids, you can consider using drugs such as hemorrhoid cream under the guidance of a doctor, or you can use cold compresses to reduce swelling. In severe cases, you can choose sclerosant injections, minimally invasive laser treatment, or traditional surgical resection. In contrast, perianal abscesses are usually caused by anal gland infections, and their environmental triggers may include poor hygiene conditions, traumatic infections, etc. In the early stage of simple redness and swelling, hot compresses and anti-inflammatory drugs can be tried, but in most cases, surgery is required to drain the pus. At the same time, it is an important part of rehabilitation to keep the wound clean and prevent recurrence after surgery.

External hemorrhoids are mostly caused by varicose veins and constipation that lead to the expansion of the anal venous plexus. The causes of their formation include genetic factors, environmental factors such as long-term sitting or standing, and physiological factors such as increased abdominal pressure caused by pregnancy or obesity. If there are no obvious symptoms of external hemorrhoids, they can be relieved by warm water sitz baths and keeping bowel movements unobstructed. Do not forcefully squeeze the swelling. If there is local bleeding and obvious pain in the external hemorrhoids, you can consider using drugs such as hemorrhoid cream under the guidance of a doctor, or you can use cold compresses to reduce swelling. In severe cases, you can choose sclerosant injections, minimally invasive laser treatment, or traditional surgical resection. In contrast, perianal abscesses are usually caused by anal gland infections, and their environmental triggers may include poor hygiene conditions, traumatic infections, etc. In the early stage of simple redness and swelling, hot compresses and anti-inflammatory drugs can be tried, but in most cases, surgery is required to drain the pus. At the same time, it is an important part of rehabilitation to keep the wound clean and prevent recurrence after surgery.

In order to better care for patients with external hemorrhoids and perianal abscesses, it is necessary to pay attention to a light diet in daily life. A high-fiber, water-rich diet can promote defecation and reduce pressure on the perianal area; avoid sitting for long periods of time and do appropriate activities; maintain personal hygiene, especially cleaning after defecation, to reduce the risk of infection. If the difference between the two conditions cannot be clearly distinguished, or the symptoms worsen and are not cured for a long time, you should go to the anorectal department of the hospital for diagnosis and treatment as soon as possible, and do not delay to cause complications. I hope everyone can pay attention to their health, find problems in time and take scientific treatment measures.