What is a common symptom of an anal abscess?

An anal abscess commonly presents with pain and swelling near the anus. This occurs due to the accumulation of pus in the tissue surrounding the anal glands, leading to inflammation and localized infection. The pain is often described as sharp and can be exacerbated by sitting or moving. This symptom is a direct result of the body's response to infection, causing redness, swelling, and tenderness in the affected area.

Other symptoms may accompany an anal abscess, such as fever or malaise, but the hallmark of this condition is the localized pain and swelling. In contrast, while constipation, severe itching, and bloating may be associated with various gastrointestinal or anorectal issues, they are not specific or definitive indicators of an anal abscess.