Post-Surgery Anal Pain: Is It Hemorrhoids or Infection?

Q: Post-Surgery Anal Pain: Is It Hemorrhoids or Infection?

Hello： In response to your question, if there is only mild swelling and pain two months post-surgery, it is likely not an anal abscess. <br>More probable causes could be residual hemorrhoid swelling due to straining during bowel movements or anal fissures. <br>Warm sitz baths com

Anal pain and swelling?

Hello Doctor, I had surgery for mixed hemorrhoids two months ago.
My diet and bowel movements are normal, but sometimes it is difficult to pass stool and it can be painful.
Recently, I have felt some swelling and pain inside the anus, and there is some discomfort around my buttocks.
When I reach in to feel, I can touch something that feels like a line, and at the base near the anal opening, I can feel some hard tissue that seems similar to when my hemorrhoids flared up before.
Pressing gently on that area is painful.
Could this be an anal abscess, or is it a recurrence of the original external hemorrhoids? Is it okay to apply the "Baozhining ointment" that my doctor prescribed before? Thank you, Jia-Hua.

Jia Hua, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2013/11/17

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

Hello: In response to your question, if there is only mild swelling and pain two months post-surgery, it is likely not an anal abscess.
More probable causes could be residual hemorrhoid swelling due to straining during bowel movements or anal fissures.
Warm sitz baths combined with topical ointments should help.
It is important to maintain good bowel habits even after undergoing hemorrhoidectomy.

Reply Date: 2013/11/17

More Info

After undergoing surgery for mixed hemorrhoids, experiencing anal pain and discomfort two months post-operation can be concerning. It’s essential to differentiate between potential causes such as hemorrhoids, infection, or other complications.
Firstly, it’s important to understand that after hemorrhoid surgery, some degree of discomfort is expected as the area heals. However, persistent pain, especially if it is accompanied by swelling or a hard mass, may indicate complications such as infection or the formation of a new hemorrhoid or anal fissure.

The symptoms you describe, including the feeling of a hard structure near the anal area and pain upon pressure, could suggest a few possibilities:
1. Residual Hemorrhoids: It is possible that the surgery did not completely remove all hemorrhoidal tissue, leading to the recurrence of symptoms. Hemorrhoids can sometimes regenerate if the underlying causes, such as straining during bowel movements, are not addressed.

2. Anal Fissures: If you are experiencing difficulty with bowel movements, this could lead to anal fissures, which are small tears in the lining of the anus. Fissures can cause significant pain, especially during and after bowel movements.

3. Infection or Abscess: The presence of swelling and hardness could indicate an infection or the formation of an abscess. An abscess is a collection of pus that can occur if bacteria infect the tissue. This would typically require medical evaluation and possibly drainage.

4. Scar Tissue Formation: After surgery, scar tissue can develop, which may lead to discomfort or pain. This is particularly true if there was significant tissue manipulation during the procedure.

Given these possibilities, it is crucial to consult your healthcare provider for a thorough examination. They may perform a physical examination and possibly imaging studies to determine the exact cause of your symptoms.
Regarding the use of the "保痔寧" ointment, while it may provide some symptomatic relief, it is essential to ensure that it is appropriate for your current condition. If there is an infection or abscess, topical treatments alone may not be sufficient, and systemic antibiotics might be necessary.

In summary, while some discomfort post-surgery is normal, the symptoms you are experiencing warrant further investigation. It is advisable to seek medical attention to rule out any serious complications and to receive appropriate treatment tailored to your specific condition. Early intervention can prevent further complications and help you return to normal activities more quickly.

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