Anal or Rectal Abscess: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Medically reviewed by Harsha Moole, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 2, 2026.
What kind of doctor treats Anal or Rectal Abscess?
Many abscesses are drained by a general surgeon or a colorectal surgeon, who specializes in conditions of the colon, rectum, and anus. A primary care doctor often makes the first diagnosis and refers you to a specialist. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What is an anal or rectal abscess?
An anal or rectal abscess is a pocket of pus that forms near the anus or inside the rectum. Pus is a thick fluid made of germs and white blood cells. These abscesses usually need prompt medical care and often a procedure to drain the pus.
An abscess happens when bacteria get into tissue and the body walls off the infection, causing pus to build up. Most abscesses near the anus start in small glands just inside the anal opening that can get blocked.
Symptoms
The most common symptom is constant, throbbing pain near the anus, often worse with sitting or bowel movements. There may be a tender, swollen lump that feels warm to the touch, sometimes with fever or drainage.
Causes and who gets it
Most abscesses are caused by bacteria that get into blocked glands around the anus. They are more common in young adults and men, and in people with diabetes, weakened immune systems, or inflammatory bowel disease.
How doctors diagnose it
A doctor can usually diagnose an abscess by examining the area. For deeper abscesses, an imaging test like a CT scan or ultrasound may be needed.
Treatment
Treatment almost always involves draining the pus, usually with a small cut near the abscess done under anesthesia. Antibiotics may be added, especially for people with diabetes or widespread infection. Pain relief, warm sitz baths, and follow-up visits help with healing.
When to see a doctor
Anyone with ongoing anal pain, a painful lump near the anus, or fever should see a doctor promptly, since an abscess will not usually go away on its own. Seek emergency care if you have a high fever, confusion, severe spreading redness, or trouble passing urine or stool.
How a direct primary care or concierge doctor fits in
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. These doctors often have longer appointments, which can help when a problem is embarrassing to discuss. They can examine you and start the workup, but most abscesses need drainage by a surgeon, so they would refer you to a specialist and handle follow-up afterward.
Common questions
Will an anal abscess go away with antibiotics alone?
Usually not. Antibiotics have a hard time reaching the pus inside an abscess, so most need to be drained. Antibiotics are often added when infection is widespread or the person has other health risks.
Is an anal abscess the same as a hemorrhoid?
No. A hemorrhoid is a swollen vein, while an abscess is an infection filled with pus. An abscess usually causes more constant pain and often fever, and it needs medical treatment.
Can an abscess come back after treatment?
It can. Some people get a new abscess in the same area, and some develop a fistula afterward. Follow-up with a doctor helps catch these problems early.
How long does recovery take?
It depends on the size and depth of the abscess. A small drained abscess may heal in a couple of weeks, while a deeper one can take longer.
Sources
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
