Perianal abscess dressing change is painful

The reason why dressing changes for perianal abscesses are painful is mainly related to wound exposure, inflammatory stimulation and touching sensitive tissues, but the discomfort can be significantly alleviated through scientific care and proper pain management.

Perianal abscess is a suppurative disease caused by bacterial infection. If not treated in time, it may develop into anal fistula. After the abscess is cleaned, the wound needs to be changed every day to maintain smooth drainage and prevent reinfection. However, the pain during the dressing change is mainly related to several factors. First, the inflammation has not completely subsided and the surrounding tissue is still sensitive; second, the removal of necrotic tissue during dressing changes will stimulate nerve endings; third, frequent mechanical touch causes more obvious wound pain. Especially with the rich nerve distribution in the perianal area, the pain experience will be amplified.

In order to reduce the pain during the dressing change process, it is recommended to try to apply some local anesthetics such as lidocaine ointment before the dressing change, which can paralyze the nerves for a short time and improve tolerance. When treating the wound, you can use warm saline or iodine to moisten the medicated dressing, which not only cleans the wound surface but also reduces irritation. If the pain is severe, you can take oral analgesics such as ibuprofen under the guidance of a doctor in the early postoperative period, and at the same time cooperate with drugs that promote wound healing such as Kangfuxin liquid. In terms of diet, you should consume more foods rich in protein and vitamin C, such as eggs, fish, and oranges, to promote tissue repair. In order to avoid secondary pain caused by constipation, you can keep drinking plenty of water, balance your dietary fiber intake, and use laxatives such as lactulose to help soften the stool when necessary.

The pain during dressing changes is often only temporary, and it reminds us that the body is gradually recovering. Maintaining an optimistic attitude, communicating fully with the doctor, and regular follow-up visits are the keys to recovery. If the pain is difficult to relieve during dressing changes, the wound secretions increase abnormally, or there is a persistent fever, it is recommended to see a doctor as soon as possible to check for other potential problems. Learning to be considerate and caring of yourself in body care will make this healing journey easier.