What ointment is used for perianal inflammation?

Generally, possible causes of perianal inflammation may include prolonged sitting, consumption of spicy foods, perianal abscess, anal fistula, anal fissure, and anal sinusitis. Medications such as erythromycin ointment, zinc oxide ointment, hydrocortisone butyrate cream, tacrolimus ointment, and ketoconazole cream may be used as directed by a physician to alleviate discomfort. If symptoms persist, timely medical consultation is recommended. A detailed explanation is as follows:

1. Prolonged Sitting

Maintaining a seated posture for extended periods, especially with poor posture or insufficient physical activity, can lead to poor perianal blood circulation, localized temperature elevation, and bacterial proliferation, which may result in inflammation. Usually, no medication is required. Regular physical activity, improved sitting posture, maintaining perianal cleanliness and dryness, and avoiding prolonged pressure on the same area may help alleviate the condition.

2. Spicy Diet

Spicy foods can irritate the perianal skin and mucous membranes, increasing the risk of local congestion and edema, which may trigger inflammation. Typically, no medication is needed. Adjusting dietary habits by reducing the intake of spicy and greasy foods and increasing dietary fiber intake can help maintain regular bowel movements.

3. Perianal Abscess

A perianal abscess is typically caused by the spread of anal gland infection to the perianal space. Once an abscess forms, it can compress surrounding tissues, causing severe pain, redness, swelling, and fever. Symptoms may include restlessness, difficulty defecating, and general fatigue. Treatment may involve the use of medications such as erythromycin ointment, zinc oxide ointment, and hydrocortisone butyrate cream under medical guidance.

4. Anal Fistula

An anal fistula may develop after rupture or incision and drainage of a perianal abscess, forming an abnormal passage connecting the rectum and the perianal area. Recurrent infection and pus discharge can lead to persistent perianal inflammation. Symptoms may include itching, intensified pain, and discomfort during bowel movements. Treatment may involve the use of medications such as compound alginate ester cream, tacrolimus ointment, and ketoconazole cream as directed by a physician.

5. Anal Fissure

Anal fissures may be associated with chronic constipation and hard stools, which can cause a longitudinal tear through the full thickness of the anal canal skin. These fissures are prone to bacterial infection, leading to perianal inflammation. Symptoms include severe pain during defecation, bleeding, and worsening constipation. Treatment may involve the use of medications such as glyceryl trinitrate ointment, lidocaine hydrochloride gel, and Gangtai ointment under medical supervision.

In daily life, to prevent perianal inflammation, it is important to maintain cleanliness and hygiene of the anal area, wash the anus after defecation, change underwear frequently, and wear loose-fitting undergarments to reduce friction and bacterial growth.