What are the dangers of prolonged perianal abscess?

If perianal abscess is not treated for a long time, it may cause the spread of infection, the formation of anal fistula and even lead to a systemic inflammatory response. In severe cases, it may be life-threatening, so early detection and intervention are very important.

Perianal abscess is a local abscess caused by infection. The most common causes include anal gland infection, immune dysfunction or intestinal diseases (such as Crohn's disease). Untreated perianal abscess may spread to deeper tissues, causing severe pain, persistent high fever and worsening of local redness, swelling and suppuration. The flow of pus may also erode healthy tissue to form anal fistula. The repeated outflow of pus after each bowel movement further aggravates the discomfort. If the abscess continues to damage the surrounding tissue or the infection enters the blood circulation, it may induce sepsis, which manifests as fever, chills and even shock. Recurrent abscesses can also form chronic fistulas, causing long-term troubles in daily life, and even affect the function of the anal sphincter, causing uncontrolled defecation.

The treatment of perianal abscess should be based on the severity of the disease. Mild patients can try antibiotic treatment, such as cephalosporins or metronidazole to control early infection, but this can usually only be used as an auxiliary means. When the abscess is obvious, surgical incision and drainage should be performed immediately to remove pus and sources of infection. After surgery, pay attention to dressing changes and keep the wound clean. If an anal fistula is formed, further surgical intervention is required, such as anal fistulectomy or hanging thread therapy to repair the fistula. Patients can also reduce anal pressure by improving their eating habits, increasing dietary fiber and water intake, and avoiding constipation that may worsen the condition. At the same time, attention should be paid to anal hygiene. Daily warm water sitz baths can promote local blood circulation, accelerate inflammation and wound healing.

When it comes to perianal abscesses, timely diagnosis and treatment can avoid the occurrence of complex complications to the greatest extent. If you feel persistent swelling and pain in the perianal area or find abnormal pus secretion, it is recommended to seek medical attention immediately and follow the doctor's advice for treatment and management. Postoperative care should not be neglected either. Good living habits and psychological adjustment can help shorten recovery time and improve the quality of life. Health is no small matter, and paying attention to your body's signals in a timely manner is the most important step towards health.