An anorectal abscess most often causes constant, throbbing pain near the anus along with swelling, redness, warmth, and a tender lump, and many people also run a fever.
The pain tends to be steady rather than coming and going, and it usually gets worse when you sit down, walk, cough, or pass stool. Symptoms depend on how deep the abscess sits: a shallow one near the skin shows an obvious red bump, while a deeper abscess in the pelvis can cause severe pain, fever, and trouble passing urine with nothing visible outside. If it opens on its own, you may see pus or blood on toilet paper or underwear and feel sudden relief, which does not mean it is cured. Warm baths, soft stools from fluids and fiber, and acetaminophen or ibuprofen can ease pain while you arrange treatment.
The signs of an abscess
Common questions
What are the symptoms of Anorectal abscess?
An anorectal abscess usually starts as steady, throbbing pain near the anus that worsens when you sit, walk, or have a bowel movement. The skin over it may look red, swollen, and warm, and you may feel a tender lump. Many people also have fever, chills, and fatigue. If the abscess drains on its own, you may notice pus or blood on toilet paper or underwear, and the pain often eases for a while. Deeper abscesses can cause severe pain, fever, or difficulty urinating without any visible lump. Get care the same day, since an abscess needs drainage and rarely clears with antibiotics alone.