17-Year-Old Student Suffers from Chronic Constipation – Why You Should Never Squeeze Skin Boils

A 17-year-old male student was admitted to the hospital with severe constipation and anal fissures, which were traced back to a seemingly minor issue — an infected skin boil on his buttocks. The patient had a habit of squeezing small boils on his back and buttocks, which led to a painful abscess. Due to the discomfort during bowel movements, he began avoiding defecation, ultimately developing chronic constipation and worsening anal fissures.

Treatment Overview

The patient received comprehensive treatment at the 988th Hospital of the Joint Logistics Support Force of the Chinese People's Liberation Army in May 2022. His treatment plan included surgical incision and drainage for the abscess, two enemas during the first two days of hospitalization, oral administration of lactulose solution starting on day three, and dietary modifications. After one week of inpatient care and two months of outpatient follow-up, the patient experienced significant improvement in both constipation and anal fissures, with reduced pain during bowel movements.

Initial Consultation: A Painful Distraction

The teenager visited the hospital complaining of bloating, rectal pain, bleeding, and frequent belching. He hadn't had a bowel movement in several days, which affected his concentration and academic performance — especially critical as he was preparing for college entrance exams. Upon further questioning, doctors learned that he often squeezed boils on his back and buttocks. This time, the infection caused a painful abscess, making bowel movements unbearable and eventually leading to chronic constipation and anal fissures.

Medical Intervention: Clearing the Blockage

Following admission, the medical team performed an incision and drainage procedure to treat the abscess. This significantly reduced the pain during sitting and defecation. To address the chronic constipation, the patient underwent two enemas within the first two days. On day three, he began taking lactulose orally and was advised to eat more fiber-rich foods such as fruits and vegetables to promote regular bowel function.

Positive Outcomes: Relief and Recovery

By the third day, the patient was able to use the restroom independently. After five days of consistent medication and proper nutrition, his bowel movements normalized to once daily, his stools became well-formed and soft, and his anal fissure symptoms improved significantly. With his condition stable and considering his academic responsibilities, he was discharged after one week with instructions for continued recovery at home and follow-up monitoring for two months.

Key Takeaways: Prevention and Awareness

While the patient made a strong recovery, it's crucial to maintain healthy habits post-treatment. Patients should avoid spicy or greasy foods, stay hydrated, and incorporate fiber into their diets. Regular physical activity is also important to prevent future episodes of constipation. Students under high stress should monitor digestive health closely and consider mild laxatives like lactulose if needed, always consulting a doctor when symptoms persist.

This case highlights how improper handling of minor skin issues can lead to serious complications. Chronic constipation can stem from various causes — including lifestyle, psychological stress, or underlying conditions like diabetes or neurological disorders. If you experience recurring constipation or skin infections, seek professional medical advice early. Lifestyle adjustments, including diet, exercise, and even alternative therapies like acupuncture, may support long-term digestive wellness.