infection
Fever and Rectal Pain
Also called: Febrile Proctalgia
The combination of fever and rectal pain is a critical symptom pairing that strongly suggests an acute infectious process, most commonly an anorectal abscess. The pain is typically constant and throbbing, while the fever indicates a systemic inflammatory response to the infection. This is considered a surgical emergency, as an untreated abscess can lead to more extensive tissue damage and potentially life-threatening sepsis. A prompt medical evaluation is essential to confirm the diagnosis and perform an urgent incision and drainage.
Frequently asked questions
If I have an abscess, does it mean I'll need surgery?
Yes. The definitive treatment for an abscess anywhere in the body is drainage. For an anorectal abscess, this is a surgical procedure called an Incision and Drainage (I&D). This can often be done under local anesthesia in an emergency room or office, but larger or deeper abscesses may require a trip to the operating room.
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