Perirectal Abscess |
|
|
| |
DESCRIPTION
|
|
A perirectal (pair-ee-REK-tuhl) abscess (AB-sess) is a pocket of pus in the tissues around the rectum, the last part of the bowel that ends at the anus.
|
|
CAUSES
|
|
Bacteria invade the tissue around the rectum through a cut or tear.
|
|
SYMPTOMS
|
|
The primary symptom is a lump that is tender, firm, or moves about when you push on it. You may also have pain and a fever. If you can see the abscess on the skin, it will probably look red and swollen.
|
|
CARE
|
|
You will probably need surgery to open the abscess and drain the pus. You may need to take antibiotics or other medicines. You'll also need to take a stool softener to make bowel movements easier.
|
|
COMPLICATIONS
|
|
s Without treatment, the abscess can develop into a tear or hole where stool can get caught. The infection can spread to other parts of your body and cause severe illness. At the very least, if the cause of the abscess is not found and fixed, it can keep coming back.
|
|