Aside from colorectal cancer and benign polyps that disrupt the proper elimination of fecal material from the body, hemorrhoids and anal abscess can also cause a lot of pain and discomfort. But many people get confused when they hear about these conditions. This article will guide you on how to differentiate hemorrhoid and anal abscess, and key points on how to detect and treat them.
The cardinal sign of anal abscess is accumulated pus surrounding the rectum or the anus. One of its varieties is the perirectal abscess; the latter develops deep in the rectal area that can make a breeding ground for infection. The perianal abscess on the other hand occurs around the mucous membrane and soft tissues of the anal sphincter. This is also the most common site for external hemorrhoids to occur.
Differentiating anal abscess from hemorrhoids can sometimes be difficult considering they appear in the same areas and have similar symptoms most of the time. Here’s a good pointer on how to differentiate hemorrhoid and anal abscess like a pro: anal abscess poses a more dangerous threat to the body, it is characterized by purulent discharge, sharp lower abdominal pain, fatigue, pain during sudden position changes, and constant discomfort during bowel movement.
Hemorrhoids on the other hand are less dangerous, although you still have to seek help for treating them since hemorrhoids are varicose veins on the rectal area; which means they can rupture anytime. The lumps that accompany the development of anal abscess and hemorrhoids resemble each other, so it’s better to seek consultation when you feel any discomfort when you pass stool.
Here are more pointers on how to differentiate hemorrhoid and anal abscess: the latter may have symptoms of infection such as chills, intermittent low-grade to high-grade fever, projectile vomiting, night sweats, and in most high-risk cases, the patient may not be able to pass stool due to severe pain. The abscess can rupture and spread to the other parts of the body, which may lead to systemic infection and eventually, septic shock. This is a life-threatening case so if you see these warning signs, head to the nearest hospital for medical intervention right away.
Hemorrhoids can be caused by irregular bowel movement, constant straining, and if the patient has a history of having varicose veins, then he or she is more likely to develop hemorrhoids. This condition can be treated with dietary changes, anti-inflammatory medications, and surgery.
Anal abscess on the other hand may be caused by numerous triggering factors. One of these factors include blockage of the glands surrounding the anus by fecal material or a foreign object. The body secretes purulent discharge, attempting to eliminate the foreign material that’s why the condition’s cardinal sign is anal pus.
Those who suffer from Crohn’s disease, diverticulosis, diverticulitis, and patients who undergo chemotherapy sessions to treat leukemia are also prone to having anal abscess. Antibiotics and steroids are usually given to treat anal abscess. The accumulated pus may be scraped manually by a surgeon to prevent it from spreading to the other parts of the lower digestive tract.
Freedom from disease should start with you. If you feel that something’s not right down there, never hesitate to consult a doctor. Have a healthy and happy life!
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