Anal Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help

Q: Anal Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help

Hello： This situation may be an acute flare-up of a fistula, or it could be an anal abscess or anal fissure. <br>Please visit the outpatient clinic for further examination. <br>Wishing you good health.

Anal pain

Hello Doctor: A few days ago, I suddenly experienced a pain in my anus while using the restroom.
Initially, I thought it was caused by constipation, but after a few days, my bowel movements became regular.
However, the pain in my anus has not decreased; in fact, it has worsened.
Recently, I can even feel the pain when standing up, sitting down, or sneezing.
What could be the cause of this?

Tom, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2010/10/19

Dr. Hou Yongji reply Surgery

Hello: This situation may be an acute flare-up of a fistula, or it could be an anal abscess or anal fissure.
Please visit the outpatient clinic for further examination.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2010/10/19

More Info

Anal pain can be a distressing symptom and may arise from various causes. Given your description of the pain persisting despite having regular bowel movements, it is essential to consider several potential underlying conditions.

1. Hemorrhoids: One of the most common causes of anal pain is hemorrhoids, which are swollen blood vessels in the rectal area. They can cause discomfort, especially during bowel movements, and may lead to pain when sitting or standing. Hemorrhoids can be external (located outside the anal opening) or internal (inside the rectum), and they can become thrombosed (clotted), leading to significant pain.

2. Anal Fissures: Another possibility is an anal fissure, which is a small tear in the lining of the anus. This condition often results in sharp pain during and after bowel movements and can be exacerbated by constipation or passing hard stools. Even if your bowel movements have become regular, the fissure may still cause ongoing pain.

3. Infections or Abscesses: Infections in the anal area, such as abscesses, can also lead to significant pain. An abscess is a collection of pus that can form due to bacterial infection, and it may require drainage by a healthcare professional. Symptoms may include swelling, redness, and fever in addition to pain.

4. Skin Conditions: Conditions such as dermatitis or fungal infections can cause irritation and pain around the anal area. These may be related to hygiene, moisture, or friction.

5. Other Conditions: Less commonly, anal pain can be associated with conditions such as anal warts, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), or even referred pain from conditions affecting the pelvic region.

Given that your pain has worsened over several days and is affecting your daily activities, it is crucial to seek medical attention. A healthcare provider can perform a thorough examination, which may include a visual inspection and possibly a digital rectal exam, to determine the cause of your pain. They may also recommend treatments such as topical medications, dietary changes to prevent constipation, or procedures to address hemorrhoids or fissures if those are found to be the cause.

In summary, while anal pain can stem from various benign conditions, persistent or worsening pain warrants a medical evaluation to rule out more serious issues and to receive appropriate treatment. Don't hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional for guidance and relief.

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