Anal pain

Anal pain is pain felt in or around the rectum. It is a fairly common condition that can result from various causes. In most cases, it is not serious and goes away on its own, but in some cases, anal pain may indicate a more serious problem and require medical treatment.

What are the possible causes of anal pain?

• Hemorrhoids;
• Infection;  
• Perianal abscess;
• Anal fissure;
• Trauma during bowel movements; 
• Neuralgia;
• Anal fistula;
• Inflammatory bowel disease;
• Colorectal cancer.

How does anal pain feel?

• Sharp, sudden pain—most often associated with an anal fissure, ulcer, or other open wound. A thrombosed hemorrhoid can also cause very severe, localized pain;
• Pain accompanied by a feeling of pressure—may be related to hemorrhoids, an abscess, or, less commonly, a tumor. In cases of constipation, pain and pressure are caused by straining and hardened stool that remains in the rectum or anal canal;
• Pain accompanied by itching—often occurs with hemorrhoids or an infection. Another possible cause is anal warts, which are a sign of human papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted infection;
• Pain after a bowel movement—particularly characteristic of an anal fissure. A bowel movement can also irritate hemorrhoids, causing them to bleed or prolapse;
• Pain during menstruation—a fairly common occurrence. Menstrual cramps can affect both the uterine and perianal muscles. In rare cases, pain and bleeding may be caused
• by endometriosis affecting the rectum;
• Pain during pregnancy—the growing fetus can put pressure on the perianal nerves, so pain or discomfort is more commonly felt when sitting.

What should I do if I’m experiencing anal pain?

In most cases, anal pain can be relieved with home remedies—it often subsides or goes away completely within a few days. However, sometimes the pain persists or even worsens.

It’s important to consult a specialist, especially if:

• The pain is severe or persistent;
• It recurs;
• It’s accompanied by bleeding, fever, or other concerning symptoms.

What medications can I use to treat anal pain at home?

• Pain relievers;
• Medicated creams containing hydrocortisone or lidocaine;
• Warm sitz baths;
• Laxatives for constipation.

How is anal pain treated?

Treatment for anal pain always depends on the underlying cause. In most cases, a doctor will recommend the same conservative treatments that can be used at home. If the condition is more complex, additional treatment may be prescribed:

• Antibiotics, antiviral, or antifungal medications: if an infection is diagnosed;
• Prescription pain relievers: when the pain is severe;
• Surgical treatment: in cases of an anal fistula or a thrombosed hemorrhoid.

When should I be concerned and see a doctor about anal pain?

• Pain that is so severe that it interferes with your daily activities or wakes you up at night; Pain that is not relieved by medication;  
• Pain accompanied by heavy or persistent bleeding;
• Pain that makes it difficult to have a bowel movement or is accompanied by constipation that cannot be relieved by laxatives.