Anal Issues: Symptoms, Causes, and When to Seek Help

Anal issues

Hello, doctor! Recently, I've been experiencing excessive sweating in my buttocks (especially after lunch), and sometimes it itches.
I also feel pain during bowel movements (sharp and tearing sensations), and there is a small amount of blood on the toilet paper (very little).
Occasionally, there is a bit of pus around the anus.
I already have a slight case of external hemorrhoids.
Could this be a serious condition?

Niming, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/01/23

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

Based on your description, it seems more like the typical symptoms of an anal fissure, which include pain during bowel movements accompanied by slight bleeding.
The common causes are often constipation or diarrhea.
The fundamental treatment is to improve bowel habits, and warm sitz baths can also be beneficial.
You can also purchase hemorrhoid suppositories at the pharmacy for relief.
If symptoms persist without improvement, it is advisable to consult a physician for further evaluation.

Reply Date: 2019/01/23

More Info

Hello! Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding your anal symptoms. Based on what you've described—excessive sweating, itching, pain during bowel movements, slight bleeding, and occasional discharge—it's understandable to feel worried about your health. Let's break down these symptoms, their potential causes, and when you should seek professional help.

Symptoms Overview
1. Excessive Sweating: This can be a normal physiological response, especially after eating, but if it's excessive, it could indicate an underlying issue.

2. Itching: Anal itching can be caused by various factors, including irritation from moisture, hygiene products, or even infections.

3. Pain During Bowel Movements: This is often associated with conditions like hemorrhoids, anal fissures, or other rectal issues.

4. Bleeding: The presence of blood on toilet paper can be alarming. While it can be due to hemorrhoids or fissures, it’s essential to rule out more serious conditions.

5. Discharge: The presence of pus can indicate an infection or abscess, which requires medical evaluation.

Possible Causes
Given your history of external hemorrhoids, it's possible that your current symptoms are related to this condition. Hemorrhoids can become inflamed and lead to pain, itching, and bleeding. However, other conditions could also be at play:
- Anal Fissures: Small tears in the anal lining can cause sharp pain and bleeding during bowel movements.

- Infections: Bacterial or fungal infections can lead to discharge and irritation.

- Skin Conditions: Conditions like eczema or psoriasis can affect the anal area, causing itching and discomfort.

- Abscesses: These can form around the anus and may present with pain, swelling, and discharge.

When to Seek Help
It's crucial to consult a healthcare professional if you experience any of the following:
- Persistent Symptoms: If your symptoms do not improve or worsen over time.

- Severe Pain: If the pain becomes unbearable or interferes with your daily activities.

- Significant Bleeding: If you notice more than a small amount of blood or if the bleeding persists.

- Fever or Chills: These could indicate an infection that requires immediate attention.

- Changes in Bowel Habits: If you experience changes in your bowel habits, such as diarrhea or constipation, alongside your symptoms.

Conclusion
While your symptoms may be related to your existing hemorrhoids, the presence of blood, pus, and pain warrants a thorough evaluation by a healthcare provider. They can perform a physical examination and possibly recommend further tests to determine the exact cause of your symptoms. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent complications and ensure your comfort.

In the meantime, consider maintaining good hygiene, using over-the-counter creams for hemorrhoids, and ensuring a high-fiber diet to ease bowel movements. However, these measures should not replace professional medical advice.

Take care, and I hope you find relief soon!

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