What to Do If Swelling in the Anus Doesn’t Go Away?

What to Do If Swelling in the Anus Doesn’t Go Away?

Swelling in the anus is a common complaint that many people may experience at some point in their lives.
However, if the swelling does not go away for an extended period, it may be a sign of a more serious underlying issue.

So, what should be done when anal swelling persists?
When should you be concerned and definitely see a doctor?
Here are detailed answers:

What Is Anal Swelling?

Anal swelling is defined as an abnormal fullness, lump, or bump felt around the anus.
Some minor swellings may resolve on their own quickly, while others require medical intervention.

When Is Swelling a Cause for Concern?

Swelling that lasts more than 1 week
Swelling that is painful, red, and feels warm
Swelling accompanied by bleeding or discharge
Swelling that grows or hardens over time

If any of these signs are present, a specialist should definitely be consulted.

Causes of Anal Swelling

There are many possible underlying causes of anal swelling:

Hemorrhoids (Piles)
Caused by the enlargement of blood vessels around the anus.
Swelling may be accompanied by itching, burning, and bleeding.

Anal Abscess
An accumulation of pus around the anus due to infection.
It appears suddenly as a painful and warm swelling.

Anal Fistula
A small tunnel formed between the skin and bowel after an abscess drains.
It is typically accompanied by continuous discharge and foul odor.

Anal Fissure (with Complications)
In deep fissures, swelling and secondary infection may develop in surrounding tissues.
Pain and bleeding are the most common accompanying symptoms.

Anal Cancer (Rare)
Very rarely, swelling in the anal region may indicate a malignant tumor.
Especially painless, firm, and enlarging masses raise suspicion of cancer.

What to Do If Anal Swelling Doesn’t Go Away?

Monitor at Home or See a Doctor?
Small, painless swellings can be monitored for 2–3 days.
However, if there is pain, redness, discharge, or enlargement, one should see a general surgeon or proctologist without delay.

Which Symptoms Require Immediate Attention?

Severe pain
High fever
Bleeding
Extreme tenderness
Suspected abscess (swelling that is filled and warm)

These symptoms may indicate infection or a serious illness.

Importance of Early Diagnosis
If diagnosed early, most anal diseases can be easily treated and prevented from becoming chronic.

Diagnostic Methods for Anal Swelling

Physical Examination: The structure of the swelling is assessed in the first step.
Anoscopy / Rectoscopy: Internal structures are examined using small optical instruments.
Imaging Methods (Ultrasound, MRI): Especially used for detailed mapping of fistulas and abscesses.

Treatment Methods for Anal Swelling

Medication
Anti-inflammatory creams, suppositories, and antibiotics may be used in mild cases.
Surgical Drainage
In cases of abscess, a small surgical procedure is required to drain the pus.
Laser Treatment Methods
Minimally invasive laser applications provide quick and painless recovery for conditions such as hemorrhoids and fistulas.
Advanced Surgical Techniques
Surgical excision and reconstruction methods may be applied in large or complicated cases.

Treatment Approaches for Anal Swelling at Avrupa Cerrahi

At Avrupa Cerrahi:

Fast and accurate diagnosis is provided.
Modern laser and minimally invasive methods are used.
Personalized treatment plans are created for each patient.
Short recovery periods and a comfortable treatment process are ensured.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can anal swelling go away on its own?
Small and simple hemorrhoid swellings may resolve; however, painful, growing, or infected swellings must be evaluated by a specialist.

How do you know if a swelling is an abscess?
Abscesses typically present with severe pain, redness, warmth, and sometimes fever.

Is swelling in the anus a sign of cancer?
Very rarely, firm and painless enlarging masses can be a sign of cancer. Early detection in such cases is vital.

What to Do If Swelling in the Anus Doesn’t Go Away?