Anal Bumps: Is It Hemorrhoids or Something Else?

There is a lump in the anus?

I often experience constipation and have a history of hemorrhoids.
Recently, I felt a lump at the anal opening; there is no bleeding, pain, or itching.
I consulted a general practitioner who said it is a skin tag at the anus and does not require treatment.
He mentioned that applying hemorrhoid cream would not make it disappear.
Is this considered a hemorrhoid? Could the previous hemorrhoids have caused the skin to protrude? I do not fully understand the explanation given by the general practitioner.

Ms. Chen, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/01/13

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

Based on your description, it seems to be a small thrombosed external hemorrhoid, which typically shrinks and resolves on its own within one to two weeks.
You can purchase over-the-counter topical hemorrhoid ointments for application.
However, if there is no improvement after two weeks, it is advisable to consult a physician for further evaluation.

Reply Date: 2017/01/13

More Info

When it comes to understanding anal bumps, particularly in the context of a history of hemorrhoids and current symptoms, it's essential to consider several factors. Hemorrhoids, which are swollen veins in the lower rectum or anus, can indeed lead to the development of skin tags or protrusions around the anal area, especially after episodes of straining during bowel movements or chronic constipation.

Given your history of hemorrhoids and the current finding of a bump near the anus that is not painful, itchy, or bleeding, it is plausible that what you are experiencing is a skin tag, also known as a perianal tag. These skin tags can develop as a result of previous hemorrhoidal episodes, where the skin stretches and remains after the hemorrhoid resolves. They are generally benign and do not require treatment unless they become bothersome or cause discomfort.

Your primary care physician's assessment that the bump is a "skin protrusion" and does not necessitate treatment aligns with common medical practice. Skin tags are often harmless and can be left alone if they do not cause any symptoms. The use of hemorrhoid creams may not be effective in reducing the size of a skin tag, as these products are designed to alleviate symptoms associated with hemorrhoids rather than remove or shrink skin tags.

However, it is crucial to differentiate between a skin tag and other potential conditions that could present similarly. For instance, anal warts, which are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), can also appear as bumps around the anal area. Additionally, other conditions such as anal fissures or even more serious issues like anal cancer could present with similar symptoms. Therefore, if there are any changes in the characteristics of the bump, such as increased size, pain, bleeding, or changes in color, it would be prudent to seek further evaluation.

In summary, based on your description and the evaluation by your physician, it seems likely that the bump you are feeling is a skin tag resulting from your previous hemorrhoidal condition. While it is generally not a cause for concern, maintaining regular check-ups with your healthcare provider is advisable, especially if you have a history of anal issues. If you have any lingering doubts or if the bump changes in any way, consider consulting a specialist, such as a gastroenterologist or a colorectal surgeon, for a more thorough examination and peace of mind.

Similar Q&A

Is It Hemorrhoids? Understanding Anal Bumps and Their Causes

Doctor, I noticed a bump near my anus a few days ago that looks like a pimple. It is translucent with a small dark spot in the center. Could this be hemorrhoids?

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery
Based on this description alone, it is difficult to determine the situation, as the distance from the anus is a key factor in the assessment. However, as long as there is no pain, bleeding, or continuous growth, it should not be a concern. If you really want to know, it is best t...

Understanding External Anal Bumps: Causes and Concerns

Hello Dr. Ke: A few months ago, I noticed some slight protrusions around the external anal area (similar to small bumps). In June, I began to observe a slight increase in these bumps, but they are not particularly itchy or painful. What could this condition be? (I have no history...

Dr. Huang Zhihui reply Surgery
It is recommended to seek medical attention as soon as possible; without observing the lesion, a diagnosis cannot be made.

Understanding Anal Bumps: Are They Hemorrhoids or Something Else?

Hello Dr. Ke, a few days ago I noticed two small bumps at the anal opening. It hurts when stool passes through (I have had loose, unformed stools for several days now), but there has been no bleeding. Applying some ointment for hemorrhoids after bowel movements provides some reli...

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery
Based on the photo, the area in front appears to be a laceration of the anal canal, while the left side resembles an acute thrombosed hemorrhoid. If symptoms improve with the use of topical ointments, it is recommended to avoid constipation and shorten the duration of bowel movem...

Understanding Anal Issues: Could It Be Hemorrhoids?

I have developed some red, raised bumps near my anus that are very itchy, and this condition has persisted for a while. Could these symptoms be hemorrhoids? Additionally, there is a fleshy area at the anal opening that is not painful but feels slightly itchy when touched. What sh...

Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Reply: Hello, 1. The red raised lesion that is very itchy, its size is uncertain—could it be a small papule or a finger-like projection? It is advisable for you to consult a dermatologist, as it may be a viral or fungal infection, such as warts or tinea. Please seek evaluation ...