Hard Lumps in the Anus: Hemorrhoids or Something Else?

A hard lump the size of a half green bean felt inside the anus?

Recently, I felt a hard lump about the size of a fingertip in the anal area.
It doesn't feel like a surface protrusion but rather a firm mass beneath the skin that is not painful and does not feel like a foreign object.
I did not notice this until June (August), and around June, I did have an external hemorrhoid, but that resolved.
Could this be what is referred to as a thrombosed internal hemorrhoid?
1.
I would like to ask the doctor if this could be hemorrhoids, genital warts, or a tumor?
2.
Since I have an ointment, if it is hemorrhoids, would applying the medication along with sitz baths help it heal faster?
3.
If it is hemorrhoids, how long does it typically take to resolve? Thank you for your response!

Ting, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/09/15

Dr. Zhang Shuhao reply Surgery

1.
Based on your description, it is most likely a thrombosed hemorrhoid, which is a lump formed by bleeding from the hemorrhoidal vessels under the skin.
Warts typically present with localized lesions; tumors are very rare at your age.

2.
Applying medication, taking warm sitz baths, adjusting your diet and lifestyle to avoid constipation, reducing prolonged standing or sitting, and avoiding alcohol can all be helpful.
There are also oral medications for hemorrhoids that can be prescribed by a physician.

3.
If it is a hemorrhoid, symptoms may improve in about 2-4 weeks, but the external hemorrhoid that has formed may not completely resolve and could still present with a slight protrusion.

Reply Date: 2023/09/15

More Info

When it comes to hard lumps in the anal area, it is essential to consider various potential causes, including hemorrhoids, skin tags, or even more serious conditions such as tumors. Based on your description of a hard lump that feels like it is beneath the skin and is not painful, it is possible that you are dealing with a thrombosed hemorrhoid or a skin tag resulting from previous hemorrhoidal issues.

1. Possible Causes:
- Hemorrhoids: These are swollen veins in the lower rectum and anus. They can be internal (inside the rectum) or external (under the skin around the anus). A thrombosed hemorrhoid occurs when a blood clot forms in an external hemorrhoid, leading to a hard lump that can be painful, but in some cases, it may not cause significant discomfort.

- Skin Tags: These are small, benign growths that can occur after the resolution of hemorrhoids. They are usually painless and can feel like a hard lump under the skin.

- Warts (Condyloma Acuminata): Caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), these can appear as growths around the anal area. They may feel firm but are typically not hard like a thrombosed hemorrhoid.

- Tumors: While less common, anal or rectal tumors can present as hard lumps. These are usually associated with other symptoms, such as bleeding, pain, or changes in bowel habits.

2. Treatment Options:
- If the lump is indeed a hemorrhoid, topical treatments such as creams or ointments can help reduce inflammation and discomfort. Over-the-counter medications containing hydrocortisone or witch hazel can be effective. Warm sitz baths can also provide relief and promote healing.

- For skin tags, treatment is usually not necessary unless they become bothersome. If they cause discomfort, they can be removed by a healthcare professional.

- If you suspect a wart, a healthcare provider can offer treatments such as cryotherapy or topical medications.

3. Healing Time:
- If the lump is a thrombosed hemorrhoid, it may take a few days to a couple of weeks to resolve on its own. The pain and swelling typically decrease over time, and the lump may gradually soften.

- Skin tags do not typically resolve on their own, but they are harmless and can be left untreated unless they become irritated.

4. When to Seek Medical Attention:
- It is crucial to consult a healthcare provider if you notice any changes in the lump, such as increased size, pain, or if you experience bleeding. A thorough examination is necessary to rule out more serious conditions, including anal cancer, especially if you have risk factors or if the lump persists.

In summary, while your symptoms may suggest a hemorrhoid or skin tag, it is essential to have a professional evaluation to determine the exact nature of the lump. Treatment can vary significantly based on the diagnosis, and early intervention can help prevent complications. If you have topical medications, using them in conjunction with warm baths may provide relief if the lump is indeed a hemorrhoid. Always prioritize consulting with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Small Hard Lumps in the Anus: Is It Hemorrhoids?

Hello, doctor. I have a question. Recently, I discovered a hard lump about 3 centimeters inside my anus, roughly the size of a grain of rice (when palpated with my finger, it is at the depth of the first knuckle). It is located at approximately the 11-12 o'clock position rel...

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery
This small hard lump inside the anus is most likely a thrombosed hemorrhoid, which typically resolves on its own within 1-2 weeks. Of course, conditions such as condyloma, low rectal cancer, and squamous cell carcinoma of the anal canal can also present as lumps in the anal area....

Is That Hard Lump Near My Anus Hemorrhoids? Understanding Symptoms

I have a round, hard lump on my anus. Could it be hemorrhoids? It hurts! It's about the size of my pinky finger.

Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: It may be hemorrhoids or complications related to hemorrhoids. Please visit a colorectal surgeon. Wishing you good health, Dr. Chi-Feng Chen, Taoyuan Hospital, Department of Health.

Understanding Rectal Hard Lumps: Possible Causes and Concerns

Hello, Doctor. A few days ago while showering, I discovered a hard lump inside my anus (about one finger joint deep) on the side closer to the front of my body. It is slightly larger than a red bean, with a rough surface. It doesn't resemble a mosquito bite that has swollen ...

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery
The exact issue can only be determined through examination; most likely it is thrombosed hemorrhoids, but anal polyps and malignant tumors are also possible, although the latter is less likely.

Understanding Hard Lumps in the Anus: Hemorrhoids or Polyps?

Hello Dr. Yuan: I would like to ask whether hemorrhoids are classified as polyps or masses. I have discovered a foreign object located about one-third of a finger's width behind the anal sphincter, which has been present for a considerable amount of time. This mass feels ova...

Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Hemorrhoids are dilated venous structures that can be classified into internal and external hemorrhoids. Internal hemorrhoids are located at the lower end of the rectum and can be graded into four levels based on whether they protrude from the anal opening and how easily t...