Treatment of cryptitis

Cryptitis occurs when the mucous membrane of the anal canal is injured or irritated for a long time, and bacteria enter the anal crypts. Inflammation may also be facilitated by blockage of the ducts of the anal glands, due to which the outflow of their secretions is disrupted.

Most often, the disease develops due to:

• regular constipation, which causes injury to the mucous membrane by dense fecal masses;
• prolonged or frequent diarrhea, which irritates the anal canal;
• disruption of the outflow of secretions from the anal glands;
• bacteria entering the injured area;
• inflammatory diseases of the rectum and colon, including proctitis or colitis, which are accompanied by irritation of the mucous membrane and bowel movement disorders.

Inflammation usually occurs not because of one factor, but because of their combination. For example, with constipation, hard fecal masses damage the mucous membrane, after which bacteria penetrate the tissues more easily and provoke inflammation.

Acute cryptitis usually begins suddenly and is accompanied by pronounced symptoms. If the inflammation lasts for a long time, chronic cryptitis may develop, in which pain and discomfort become less intense but recur regularly.

The doctors at «Oxford Medical» explain that similar manifestations may occur with hemorrhoids, an anal fissure, or proctitis. Therefore, it is impossible to determine the cause of the complaints based on symptoms alone — an examination by a proctologist and diagnostic tests are required for this.

Diagnosis begins with a consultation. First, the proctologist clarifies the nature of the complaints, the duration of the symptoms, and their connection with defecation. Then the doctor examines the area of the anus and performs a digital examination of the rectum. This makes it possible to assess the condition of the tissues and detect signs of inflammation.

Anoscopy is performed for a detailed examination of the anal canal. Using a special instrument, the doctor assesses the mucous membrane, examines the anal crypts, and determines whether the complaints are associated with cryptitis of the anus.

If necessary, the doctor additionally prescribes:

• laboratory tests — if an infection or a pronounced inflammatory process is suspected;
• sigmoidoscopy — to examine the rectum and the lower part of the sigmoid colon;
• colonoscopy — if it is necessary to check the condition of the colon and rule out other causes of the symptoms;
• ultrasound of the intestine — if inflammatory changes in the large or small intestine are suspected and it is necessary to assess the condition of the intestinal wall.

The scope of diagnostics is determined individually after the initial examination. This makes it possible to obtain sufficient information to establish a diagnosis without the unjustified prescription of unnecessary procedures.

If cryptitis is not accompanied by purulent complications, treatment usually begins with conservative methods. The doctor selects the medications and duration of therapy after the examination, taking into account the severity of the inflammation, the cause of the disease, and the nature of bowel movements.

Treatment may include:

• local anti-inflammatory medications in the form of suppositories or ointments;
• painkillers to reduce pain and discomfort;
• antibacterial medications — if there are signs of a bacterial infection;
• medications to normalize bowel movements in case of constipation or diarrhea.

It is also important to eliminate factors that irritate the anal canal. In case of constipation, it is recommended to add vegetables, fruits, cereals, and other foods containing fiber to the diet, as well as to drink enough water. This helps make the stool softer and reduce repeated injury to the mucous membrane.

According to a study published in PubMed, if cryptitis of the rectum cannot be eliminated by conservative methods, the inflammation regularly recurs, or a purulent complication develops, surgical treatment may be required. During the intervention, the doctor opens the inflamed crypt, cleans it of pus, and, if necessary, removes the affected tissues.

The doctors at «Oxford Medical» recommend not using suppositories, ointments, or antibiotics without a prescription. Self-treatment may temporarily relieve the symptoms but not eliminate the cause of the disease and may complicate further diagnosis and treatment.

Prevention of cryptitis primarily involves normalizing bowel movements and preventing injury to the mucous membrane of the anal canal. It is important to promptly treat constipation, diarrhea, and inflammatory bowel diseases that may contribute to recurrent inflammation of the anal crypts.

To reduce the risk of developing the disease, it is recommended to:

• regularly consume vegetables, fruits, cereals, and other foods containing fiber;
• drink enough water throughout the day;
• not suppress the urge to defecate and avoid prolonged straining;
• consult a doctor promptly in case of constipation, frequent diarrhea, pain, or discharge from the anal canal;
• follow recommendations for the treatment of proctitis, colitis, and other intestinal diseases.

The doctors at «Oxford Medical» recommend paying attention to the regularity of bowel movements and not leaving prolonged constipation, diarrhea, frequent urination, or other symptoms of diseases untreated. Timely consultation with a doctor helps establish the cause of such disorders, undergo the necessary treatment, and prevent possible complications

The cost of cryptitis treatment depends on the severity of the inflammation, the scope of the necessary examinations, and the prescribed therapy. If the patient requires surgical intervention, the price is also affected by the method of performing the procedure and the type of anesthesia.

You can view the prices for a proctologist consultation here. The doctor will provide more details about the treatment options and the cost of the necessary medical services during the appointment. To make an appointment for a consultation, use the online appointment form or contact the «Oxford Medical» contact center.

The information is for informational purposes and does not replace a doctor’s consultation.

Sources:

• PubMed
• NCBI Bookshelf
• American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons