Painful Lump Near the Anus: Causes and When to See a Doctor

A painful lump near the anus?

Hello, doctor! About a month ago, while I was showering, I noticed a bump near my anus that felt like a pimple.
At that time, it wasn't painful, but in the past few days, I've noticed that the bump has been getting larger and is now painful when touched or moved.
I would like to ask the doctor what this condition might be.
If I need to see a doctor, which specialty should I consult?

Chen Chen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/12/16

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

Perianal pain and swelling are often due to hemorrhoids; however, if symptoms persist for more than a month, the possibility of an anal fistula should be considered.
It is recommended that you consult a colorectal surgeon for a thorough examination to make an accurate diagnosis and provide appropriate treatment.

Reply Date: 2015/12/16

More Info

When you discover a painful lump near the anus, it can be concerning, and it's essential to understand the potential causes and when to seek medical attention. The lump you described could be due to several conditions, and it’s crucial to approach this matter with care.

Possible Causes
1. Hemorrhoids: One of the most common causes of lumps near the anus is hemorrhoids, which are swollen blood vessels in the rectal area. They can be internal or external and may cause pain, itching, and bleeding, especially during bowel movements.

2. Anal Abscess: An anal abscess occurs when a gland near the anus becomes blocked and infected, leading to a painful lump filled with pus. This condition often requires medical intervention, including drainage.

3. Fistula: An anal fistula is a small tunnel that forms between the end of the bowel and the skin near the anus, often resulting from an abscess. It can cause discomfort and may require surgical treatment.

4. Skin Tags: These are benign growths that can occur around the anal area. While they are usually painless, they can become irritated and cause discomfort.

5. Warts or Other Growths: Genital warts or other types of skin growths can also appear near the anus. These may be caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and can be painful if they become inflamed.

6. Other Conditions: Less commonly, conditions such as Crohn's disease, anal cancer, or other dermatological issues can present as lumps or growths near the anus.

When to See a Doctor
You should consider seeing a doctor if:
- The lump is painful, growing, or changing in appearance.

- You experience additional symptoms such as bleeding, discharge, or changes in bowel habits.

- You have a fever or other signs of infection.

- The lump persists for more than a few days without improvement.

Which Specialist to See
For issues related to the anal area, you should consult a gastroenterologist or a colorectal surgeon. These specialists are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the gastrointestinal tract, including the anus and rectum. If you are uncomfortable discussing this issue, remember that these professionals deal with such matters regularly and can provide the necessary care and support.

Conclusion
In summary, while a painful lump near the anus can be caused by various conditions, it is essential to seek medical advice, especially since the lump is growing and causing pain. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications and ensure that any underlying issues are addressed promptly. Don't hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider to discuss your symptoms and get the appropriate care.

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