This section is from the book "The Home Hand-Book of Domestic Hygiene and Rational Medicine. Volume 2.", by J. H. Kellogg, M.D.. Also available from Amazon: The Home Hand-Book of Domestic Hygiene and Rational Medicine, Volume 2.
This form of abscess is not uncommon. High living, irregular and sedentary habits, straining at stool, and general derangement of the health are all causes which may result in abscess near the rectum. It is a curious fact that this form of abscess shows a great tendency to become chronic and little disposition to heal kindly, often resulting in fistula.
As soon as a painful swelling near the anus is felt, go to bed and apply ice or very cold compresses constantly for twenty-four hours. If the soreness and swelling continue to increase, apply hot fomentations to hasten the process.
 
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