Post-Drainage Care for Anal Abscess: What to Expect and When to Seek Help

After drainage of an anal abscess

Hello, about 4-5 days ago, I noticed a small lump near my anus that was painful when sitting or standing, so I went to the emergency room.
The doctor diagnosed it as an anal abscess and performed a procedure with local anesthesia and drainage.
The day after the procedure, I no longer felt swelling or pain, only discomfort from the wound.
In fact, within 24 hours post-surgery, I experienced no pain at all.
When I returned for a follow-up three days later, the doctor said I could stop taking antibiotics, and there was no sign of pus upon examination or palpation.
However, since the drainage, I can still feel a small hard lump during sitz baths (it was painful to touch before drainage, but it is not painful now).
Even now, on the fifth day post-drainage, I can still feel this small lump, but it does not hurt when pressed.

My question is, will this small hard lump (located in the same area as the abscess and surgical site) disappear over time? Or should I return to the doctor for further examination? Based on my description, is there a way to determine whether this abscess was severe or not? Thank you.

Mr. Huang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/05/18

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

A lump is the site of infection, and as long as the infection is under control, it will gradually soften over time.
If the redness, swelling, heat, and pain are slowly alleviating, there is no need to rush for a follow-up appointment; you can adhere to the follow-up schedule provided by your physician.

Reply Date: 2021/05/18

More Info

After undergoing drainage for an anal abscess, it is common to have some residual discomfort and to notice changes in the area as it heals. Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing a small hard lump at the site of the drainage, which is not causing pain upon pressure. This can be a normal part of the healing process, but there are a few important considerations to keep in mind.

What to Expect After Drainage
1. Healing Process: After drainage, the body will naturally form scar tissue as it heals. This can sometimes present as a small lump or hard area at the site of the abscess. The lump may be composed of granulation tissue, which is part of the healing process. Over time, this tissue can soften and may eventually disappear.

2. Pain Management: It is a positive sign that you are not experiencing pain at the site of the lump. Pain is often an indicator of infection or other complications, so the absence of pain is generally reassuring.

3. Monitoring for Infection: While you mentioned that there is no discharge or pain, it is still important to monitor the area for any signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, warmth, or discharge. If any of these symptoms develop, it would be prudent to seek medical attention.

When to Seek Help
1. Persistent Lump: If the hard lump does not decrease in size over the next few weeks or if it becomes painful, you should return to your healthcare provider for further evaluation. While it may be a normal part of healing, persistent lumps can sometimes indicate a need for further investigation.

2. Signs of Complications: If you experience any new symptoms such as fever, increased pain, or changes in bowel habits, you should seek medical attention promptly. These could be signs of a more serious issue that requires intervention.

3. Follow-Up Appointments: It is important to keep any scheduled follow-up appointments with your doctor. They can assess the healing process and determine if any further treatment is necessary.

Conclusion
In summary, the small hard lump you are feeling is likely a part of the healing process following your anal abscess drainage. It is important to monitor the area for any changes and to maintain communication with your healthcare provider. If you have any concerns or if the lump changes in any way, do not hesitate to seek medical advice. Your health and comfort are paramount, and your doctor can provide the best guidance based on a physical examination and your specific situation.

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