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Please Note: Due to volume considerations, not all questions can be answered. Questions most likely to be answered will be those of general interest to a broad group of visitors to this forum. Questions pertaining to a specific case; requests for diagnosis, medical advice, or second opinion; or requests for opinions about untested alternative therapies will generally not be answered.

Ask the Experts about Opportunistic Infections

 

Anal abcess
Aug 6, 2001

Hi Doctor,

I tested positive about 1 year ago and since, have had 3 anal abesses. The 1st, surgery was required. Cut & drain etc. Worst experience of my life. The last 2, I have handled with salt/hot water baths and avoided going to the hospital. But still, dreadfully painful. My recent counts are cd=494 and vl=40000 and I'm not on therapy as yet. One other note ... I've also experienced 2 abcesses behind my ears. Is there anyway to avoid these painful occurences?? Thank you for any assistance.

Response from Dr. Feinberg

There is no foolproof way to prevent abscesses. If you are engaging in receptive anal intercourse, you might want to avoid that so that you don't traumatize the lining of the rectum. Good hygiene-- like washing behind your ears with soap thoroughly every day can also be helpful.



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