Anal Abscess in Indianapolis, IN
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Find a ProviderWhat is an anal abscess?
An anal abscess (also called an anorectal abscess or perianal abscess) is a buildup of pus near the rectum or anus. Abscesses can form anywhere in the body, usually as a result of a bacterial infection. Anal abscesses often develop when one of the glands around the anus becomes blocked or when a condition or wound leaves the area vulnerable to becoming infected, creating a painful red boil under the skin. Anal abscesses can fester and cause further health complications if not dealt with, so it's important to contact a gastrointestinal health specialist in Indianapolis, IN if you think you may have developed an infection around the anus. Request a consultation with the providers at Indianapolis Gastroenterology and Hepatology to learn more about the causes and therapies for anal abscesses.
What causes anal abscesses?
There are numerous glands located around the anus. When these glands become clogged (either by bacteria or feces), the fluid inside can't drain properly, trapping bacteria inside and opening the way for an infection to occur. That is not the only way for bacteria to develop in the area, however. Other typical causes of anal abscesses include:
- Anal fissures becoming infected
- Anal intercourse
- Some inflammatory bowel disorders (such as Crohn's disease)
- Pregnancy
- Sexually transmitted infections
- Diabetes
Individuals suffering from an anal abscess in Indianapolis, IN are advised to consult with a board-certified GI physician for a diagnosis and treatment.
What are the signs of an anal abscess?
Symptoms of an anal abscess can vary depending on the patient and how deep the abscess is. Commonly reported symptoms include:
- Pus draining around the anus
- Inflammation and tenderness around the anus
- Constipation
- Pain during bowel movements
- Pain around the infected site (especially when sitting)
Individuals may also feel fever, chills, or fatigue if the abscess has progressed. If left untreated, an abscess may develop into a fistula, an abnormal tunnel that opens up in the body and may lead to further complications.
How are anal abscesses diagnosed and treated?
Before starting treatment, your gastroenterologist in Indianapolis, IN will first need to diagnose your condition and evaluate the scope of the infection. They may do this with a digital rectal exam (using a gloved finger inserted into the anus), an imaging test (such as a CT test or ultrasound), or a sigmoidoscopy (a flexible tube with a light and camera that is inserted through the anus).
Treatment for an anal abscess involves creating a small hole to allow pus to drain, alleviating the pressure around the area and giving the abscess a chance to start healing. This can often be accomplished with a simple procedure at your GI doctor's office, though more advanced cases might require surgery and a stay in the hospital. Afterward, you may be prescribed antibiotics to help stop the infection from coming back as well as pain relievers. Laxatives or stool softeners might also be recommended if constipation is an issue. Patients are often advised to take warm baths (sitz) for some time after their procedure to reduce discomfort and inflammation.
If your abscess has developed into an anal fistula or your infection returns after your procedure, surgery will likely be needed. The GI specialists at Indianapolis Gastroenterology and Hepatology are well-versed when it comes to treating anal abscesses and other gastrointestinal disorders affecting your life. Request a consultation with our providers today if you're experiencing issues you believe may be caused by an anorectal abscess.
Experience you can trust
In addition to being painful and inconvenient, anal abscesses have the potential to create serious health problems if they are neglected, from infections to fistulas. Swift treatment is crucial to ensure the problem doesn't become bigger. Contact the GI experts at Indianapolis Gastroenterology and Hepatology to discuss your symptoms and treatment options. Our providers have helped numerous individuals living with anal abscesses in Indianapolis, IN and will be happy to partner with you.
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Absolutely LOVE the staff, they are the best. The Nurses are very intuitive and personable. Dr. Drake explained everything before and the aftercare as well!!
I went to Indiana Gastroenterology for a 2nd opinion. Due to having SIBO (Small Intestine Bacterial Overgrowth). I was diagnosed with it in March 2022. I am currently now getting the help and treatment for it. I was treated with professional respect and understanding that this is an serious infection that shouldn't be just put to the side like IU Health did. I currently see Dr. Drake. I like him alot. He took his time and I didn't feel rushed at all. He immediately noticed my issue with my stomach, looking 3 months pregnant all the time. (Which I am not part of the infection always bloated and hard stomach.) I believe what helped me during the appointment was having all my paperwork from another doctor and documenting what issues I had to help decide what needs to be done.
They were very professional did a wonderful job.
Dr Robert Vincent spent some time with me at my last visit. I am scheduled for a colonoscopy and n December. If you haven't had a colonoscopy and your 40, you should get one.
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