Anal Discomfort: Is It Hemorrhoids or Skin Inflammation?

Prolonged sitting can lead to a sensation of moisture in the anal area?

I would like to consult a doctor.
I have been experiencing a burning sensation in my anus and the inner thighs, which is especially noticeable at night.
I visited a proctologist who diagnosed me with internal hemorrhoids but stated that the burning sensation is not caused by the hemorrhoids.
I applied medication for five days, but the symptoms persisted.
I then consulted a dermatologist who mentioned that my skin is slightly inflamed and prescribed a similar ointment.
Today, after sitting for a long time, I felt a moist sensation, and when I wiped with tissue, there was a slight trace of blood.
I would like to know if this is caused by the internal hemorrhoids or the skin inflammation.
Should I follow up with a specific department? How long should I continue applying the ointment? I noticed that the inflamed area is located around the anal opening, with a diameter of about 2-3 centimeters.

Ahao, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/12/16

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

This condition is often a localized skin inflammation that can be evaluated by either a dermatologist or a proctologist.
A low-dose corticosteroid cream applied for about a week may lead to healing.
If the current physician's treatment is not effective, it may be beneficial to seek a second opinion from another doctor.

Reply Date: 2020/12/16

More Info

When it comes to anal discomfort, particularly with symptoms like burning sensations and the presence of blood, it's essential to consider various potential causes. Based on your description, you have already consulted both a proctologist and a dermatologist, which is a good approach to rule out different conditions.

From your account, the proctologist diagnosed you with internal hemorrhoids, which are swollen veins in the rectal area that can cause discomfort, itching, and bleeding. However, the burning sensation you are experiencing is not typically associated with internal hemorrhoids. This suggests that there may be another underlying issue contributing to your symptoms.

The dermatologist's assessment of skin inflammation is significant. Skin irritation or inflammation around the anal area can occur due to several reasons, including:
1. Contact Dermatitis: This can result from irritation due to moisture, friction, or contact with irritants such as soaps, wipes, or even certain fabrics. The skin in the anal region is sensitive, and prolonged exposure to moisture can lead to inflammation.

2. Fungal or Yeast Infections: The warm, moist environment of the anal area can promote fungal infections, which can cause burning, itching, and redness.

3. Skin Conditions: Conditions like psoriasis or eczema can also manifest in the anal region, leading to similar symptoms.

4. Anal Fissures: These are small tears in the lining of the anus that can occur due to straining during bowel movements. They can cause sharp pain and bleeding, often exacerbated by bowel movements.

Given that you have noticed a moist sensation and blood on the toilet paper, it is crucial to monitor these symptoms closely. The presence of blood can be concerning, and while it may be related to hemorrhoids or skin irritation, it is essential to ensure that there are no more serious underlying issues.

Regarding the use of topical medications, it's important to follow the dermatologist's instructions. If the medication prescribed is not providing relief after a reasonable period (usually a week or two), or if your symptoms worsen, it would be advisable to return to the dermatologist or consult with the proctologist again. They may need to reassess your condition and possibly conduct further examinations, such as a visual inspection or even a biopsy if necessary.

In terms of self-care, here are some recommendations:
- Maintain Hygiene: Keep the area clean and dry. Use gentle, unscented soap and avoid harsh chemicals.

- Avoid Irritants: Be cautious with the products you use in the area. Opt for hypoallergenic options.

- Moisture Control: If moisture is a concern, consider using absorbent powders designed for sensitive skin to keep the area dry.

- Dietary Adjustments: Ensure you are consuming a high-fiber diet to prevent straining during bowel movements, which can exacerbate hemorrhoids and fissures.

In conclusion, while your symptoms may stem from either internal hemorrhoids or skin inflammation, the presence of blood and ongoing discomfort warrants further evaluation. Continue to monitor your symptoms closely, adhere to the prescribed treatment, and do not hesitate to seek further medical advice if your condition does not improve or worsens.

Similar Q&A

Is It Hemorrhoids or Just Anal Skin Irritation? Understanding Your Symptoms

In recent days, I have experienced pain when wiping my bottom, and there is occasional discomfort when passing stool through the anus, particularly a sharp pain when touching the area with toilet paper. There is no blood in my stool, and I am not constipated. I bought "Yun J...

Dr. Xu Kaixi reply Surgery
Dear Alpha, Dr. Hsu Kai-Hsi from the Tainan Hospital of the Department of Health Executive Yuan would like to inform you that the skin around the anus may become abrasions (what you referred to as "broken skin") due to external forces such as friction from stool or wip...

Understanding Anal Pain: Is It a Hemorrhoid or Something Else?

Hello Dr. Hou: A couple of days ago, I woke up and noticed a painful sensation around my anus. I didn't pay much attention to it, but I felt uncomfortable throughout the day. When I took a shower at home, I felt something about the size of a pimple. I initially thought it wa...

Dr. Hou Yongji reply Surgery
The diagnosis of anal diseases includes medical history, visual examination, and digital examination, as well as possible endoscopy or ultrasound examinations. Please consult a colorectal specialist for treatment. Thank you. Attached is the list of colorectal specialists: D:\2F\T...

Managing Emotional Stress and Its Impact on Anal Skin Irritation

Hello Doctor, I usually do not have issues with constipation, but I recently noticed that whenever I have important work and feel more anxious that day, after finishing the work, I feel like the area around my anus and buttocks is swollen. When I walk, the two sides of my buttock...

Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Family Medicine
Dear Ms. Lemon: 1. Based on your description, it is possible that the skin around the anal area is ulcerated due to moisture and friction; sometimes this can also be caused by tight or ill-fitting clothing. If there are internal or external hemorrhoids or other anal conditions,...

Understanding Hemorrhoid Treatment and Skin Care for Anal Discomfort

Hello, Doctor. I visited the colorectal department two days ago, and the physician diagnosed me with internal and external hemorrhoids. However, I am more concerned about the pain at the upper end of the anal area (near the vaginal opening) because the pain is more intense than t...

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery
If there is swelling and pain around the anus, one should consider the possibility of an anal abscess or an anal fissure. If there is a fever, the likelihood of an anal abscess is greater. If pain occurs only during bowel movements, it may indicate an anal fissure. The former req...