Anal Discharge: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

The anus may discharge fecal fluid?

Hello Doctor: Since early February, I have been experiencing some pain in my anus (I have bowel movements daily).
From February 6 to February 15, I started to notice a discharge from my anus (with a fecal odor).
Occasionally, after a bowel movement, there is a small amount of blood when wiping, and sometimes blood in the stool, but the frequency of blood is no more than five times.
I also feel pain in the tissue around the anus when walking, but it does not hurt when I am not walking.
From February 15 to February 19, the discharge continued, but the amount was small, and there was no blood in the stool, although the pain in the tissue around the anus persisted while walking.
From February 19 to February 21, the discharge continued, still in small amounts, and there was no pain while walking.

Currently, my symptoms include daily discharge from the anus with a fecal odor, which also occurs during sleep.
There is no pain when straining during bowel movements.
Occasionally, after a bowel movement, I experience pain in the anus, but the pain lasts no longer than one hour and only occurs when I intentionally strain.
I suspect there may be a small bump in the anal area (not certain).
I have daily bowel movements, which can be hard or soft at times.
This has caused significant disruption to my daily life, and I apologize for bothering you.
Thank you in advance for your guidance and for taking the time to respond! Thank you, Doctor! I would like to inquire about what my symptoms might indicate and how I should proceed.

A Jun, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/02/21

Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

It is not possible to rule out the possibility of a fistula; please consult a colorectal surgeon.

Reply Date: 2019/02/21

More Info

Understanding anal discharge can be quite complex, as it may arise from various underlying conditions. Based on the symptoms you've described, it seems you are experiencing a combination of anal pain, discharge with a fecal odor, occasional blood in your stool, and discomfort during certain activities. Let's break down the potential causes, symptoms, and treatment options for your condition.

Potential Causes
1. Hemorrhoids: One of the most common causes of anal pain and bleeding is hemorrhoids, which are swollen veins in the lower rectum and anus. They can cause discomfort, itching, and bleeding, especially during bowel movements.

2. Anal Fissures: These are small tears in the lining of the anus, often caused by passing hard stools. They can lead to pain and bleeding during or after bowel movements.

3. Infections: Anal abscesses or infections can lead to discharge and pain. If there is a small bump or "pimple" near the anus, it could indicate an abscess that may require drainage.

4. Fistulas: An anal fistula is an abnormal connection between the anal canal and the skin near the anus, often resulting from an infection or abscess. This can cause persistent discharge and discomfort.

5. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Conditions like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis can cause symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and rectal bleeding.

6. Skin Conditions: Conditions like dermatitis or psoriasis can also affect the anal area, leading to irritation and discharge.

Symptoms
From your description, the key symptoms include:
- Persistent anal discharge with a fecal odor.

- Occasional blood during bowel movements.

- Pain during specific activities, particularly when walking or straining.

- A possible small bump near the anus.

Recommended Actions
1. Consult a Healthcare Provider: Given the complexity and potential seriousness of your symptoms, it is crucial to consult a healthcare provider, preferably a gastroenterologist or a proctologist. They can perform a thorough examination, possibly including a digital rectal exam or anoscopy, to determine the exact cause of your symptoms.

2. Maintain Hygiene: Keep the anal area clean and dry. Use gentle, unscented wipes or warm water to clean after bowel movements. Avoid harsh soaps that can irritate the area.

3. Dietary Adjustments: Ensure you are consuming a high-fiber diet to prevent constipation and hard stools, which can exacerbate hemorrhoids and fissures. Drinking plenty of water is also essential.

4. Over-the-Counter Treatments: Depending on the diagnosis, over-the-counter treatments such as topical creams for hemorrhoids or pain relief medications may provide temporary relief.

5. Avoid Straining: When using the bathroom, try to avoid straining, as this can worsen symptoms. If you experience constipation, consider using a stool softener.

6. Follow-Up: If symptoms persist or worsen, follow up with your healthcare provider. They may recommend further diagnostic tests or treatments, such as prescription medications or surgical options if necessary.

Conclusion
Your symptoms indicate a potential underlying issue that requires medical evaluation. While some conditions may resolve with conservative management, others may need more intensive treatment. It is essential to address these symptoms promptly to prevent complications and improve your quality of life. Please prioritize scheduling an appointment with a healthcare professional to discuss your symptoms in detail.

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