a Soft Bump Near the Anus: Causes and Treatment Options

There is a round, soft protrusion next to the anus?

Hello Doctor,
I would like to ask you about a situation I have been experiencing.
Three days ago, I suddenly felt discomfort around my anus.
Upon touching the area, I discovered a round protrusion near the edge of the anus, which I had not noticed before.
Now, when I walk or sit down, I feel a sensation of a foreign body and some pain.
In the morning, the protrusion seems to be smaller, but it swells slightly before I go to bed.

Could you please tell me what this condition might be? Do I need to undergo immediate surgical treatment, or might it resolve on its own? How should I manage this situation?
I have attached photos for your reference (the following are direct photos without spreading the buttocks):
[Link 1](https://drive.google.com/file/d/12QJaNnDwyVj7Bcx1soYZ0hNF1VrhbrkT/view?usp=drive_link)
[Link 2](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1A7YLOB1eI95eA7EEbUEClEWSkyXu275W/view?usp=drive_link)
[Link 3](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1SY8F8tqpe0Ck6_fkLRNUWSBaBAM4ckYJ/view?usp=drive_link)
[Link 4](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1CJecnFG7n5XID-WHQOMWjTi8_evvffEh/view?usp=drive_link)
(The following are photos with the buttocks spread to see the inside):
[Link 5](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1dutJu2lFS9dw-B1kRCAhc3j18ua-Fs-M/view?usp=drive_link)
[Link 6](https://drive.google.com/file/d/16Uo6x6EEuSzKkED81_sKXTlkH4ktIOs7/view?usp=drive_link)
What type of condition does this represent? What treatment or management do you recommend—surgery, sitz baths, or topical ointments? If I choose not to treat it right away, will it continue to grow?
Additionally, a friend mentioned using "Hiyu Hemorrhoid Ointment" to reduce swelling.
Would this ointment be suitable for my situation, or is it better to let it resolve on its own with more rest?
Thank you for your response.

K, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/01/16

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

Based on the photo, it appears to be a thrombosed hemorrhoid.
If there is no pain or discomfort, it is generally fine to leave it alone, as it will gradually resolve on its own.
Applying hemorrhoid ointment can help alleviate discomfort and speed up absorption.
If the discomfort is significant, a thrombectomy can be performed under local anesthesia in an outpatient setting, which will provide quicker relief.

Reply Date: 2024/01/16

More Info

Dear Patient,
Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding the soft bump near your anus. Based on your description, it sounds like you may be experiencing a condition commonly associated with hemorrhoids, anal abscesses, or possibly a skin tag. Let’s break down the possible causes, treatment options, and when you might need to seek further medical attention.

Possible Causes
1. Hemorrhoids: These are swollen veins in the lower rectum and anus that can cause discomfort, itching, and sometimes bleeding. They can be internal or external, and external hemorrhoids can form a lump that may be painful, especially when sitting or walking.

2. Anal Abscess: This is a collection of pus that can occur near the anus, often due to an infection. It can cause swelling, pain, and a feeling of pressure in the area.

3. Skin Tag: These are benign growths that can occur around the anus, often as a result of previous irritation or inflammation. They are usually painless but can become irritated.

4. Fissures or Other Skin Conditions: Anal fissures or other dermatological conditions can also lead to discomfort and the sensation of a lump.

Treatment Options
1. Self-Care Measures:
- Sitz Baths: Soaking in warm water for 10-15 minutes several times a day can help reduce discomfort and swelling.

- Over-the-Counter Creams: Products like hydrocortisone cream or topical anesthetics can provide relief from itching and pain. Your friend’s recommendation of "喜癒痔藥膏" (a hemorrhoid cream) may also help if it contains ingredients that reduce swelling and discomfort.

2. Pain Relief: Non-prescription pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help manage pain and discomfort.

3. Dietary Changes: Increasing fiber intake and staying hydrated can help prevent constipation, which can exacerbate hemorrhoids and anal discomfort.

4. Avoid Straining: When using the bathroom, avoid straining, as this can worsen hemorrhoids and other anal conditions.

When to Seek Medical Attention
- If the bump does not improve with home treatment within a few days.

- If you experience severe pain, fever, or signs of infection (such as increased redness, swelling, or discharge).

- If you notice significant bleeding or changes in bowel habits.

Surgical Options
In some cases, if the bump is determined to be a thrombosed hemorrhoid or an abscess, a healthcare provider may recommend surgical intervention. This could involve draining an abscess or removing a hemorrhoid if it does not respond to conservative treatments.

Conclusion
While it is possible that the bump may resolve on its own, it is essential to monitor your symptoms closely. If you notice any worsening or if the bump does not decrease in size, I recommend consulting a healthcare professional for a thorough examination and tailored treatment plan. They can provide a definitive diagnosis and discuss whether any further interventions are necessary.

In the meantime, practicing good hygiene, using topical treatments, and managing pain with over-the-counter medications can help alleviate your symptoms. Please take care, and do not hesitate to reach out for further assistance.

Best wishes for your health,
Doctor Q&A Teams

Similar Q&A

Understanding Soft Bumps Near the Anus: Causes and Concerns

Doctor, I noticed a small soft bump at the anal opening while taking a shower. It feels slightly painful when touched. What could this be?

Dr. Zhang Shuhao reply Surgery
Common conditions include thrombosed hemorrhoids, external hemorrhoids, anal skin tags, and localized skin infections. It is recommended to consult a dermatologist or a colorectal specialist for a professional diagnosis and advice to determine the nature of the protrusion and rec...

Understanding Soft Bumps Near the Anus: What You Need to Know

There is a round, soft bump next to the anus that is not painful. Doctor, what could this be and is it serious?

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology
Based on the literal description, it is not possible to confirm the diagnosis without actually seeing the lesion. It is recommended to have a physician evaluate it for accurate assessment.

Understanding Painful Bumps Near the Anus: Causes and Treatments

Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about a bump near my anus that looks like a pimple and is painful and hard. I went to the pharmacy and informed the pharmacist about my condition, and they gave me a topical cream called Xinhui Meikang Cream (a treatment for various skin conditi...

Dr. Xu Kaixi reply Surgery
Based on your description, this lump is more likely to be folliculitis or an inflamed sebaceous cyst. For a definitive diagnosis and to determine the exact cause, it is necessary to visit a surgical outpatient clinic or a dermatology clinic in person for further evaluation.

Soft Pink Bump Near Anus: Should You Be Concerned?

Today, I felt a slight sharp pain in my anus and discovered a small pink soft lump on the outer edge of the anus when I looked in the mirror. It doesn't hurt and there is no bleeding. My bowel movements are generally smooth, although I had a minor issue with constipation a f...

Dr. Zhang Shuhao reply Surgery
A sudden appearance of a pink small lump at the anal margin is most commonly associated with thrombosed hemorrhoids. It is advisable to take warm sitz baths, increase fluid intake, and consume dietary fiber to prevent constipation, along with the use of hemorrhoid ointments to al...