People often worry that rectal bleeding and anal lumps could be signs of cancer; however, most often these symptoms are more likely caused by hemorrhoids than by cancer itself.
Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels that cause discomfort and itching, but do not increase your risk for colon cancer, which involves unchecked cell division in your colon.
Anus Cancer Vs Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids and anal cancer are two different conditions that can cause similar symptoms. Here are some differences between the two:
Difference
- Hemorrhoids are swollen veins inside the rectum and anus that can become inflamed and swollen.
- They often manifest in the form of hard, sore lumps.
- Hemorrhoids can cause rectal bleeding, itching, and pain.
- Hemorrhoids are not typically a serious health concern.
Anal Cancer:
- Anal cancer is uncontrolled growth by abnormal cells.
- The main warning signs of anal cancer are rectal pain, itching, and bleeding, as well as changes in bowel movements, such as unusually narrow stools.
- Other symptoms of anal cancer may include diarrhea, constipation, or weight loss.
- Anal cancer is a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention.
It is not always possible to tell the difference between hemorrhoids and anal cancer based on symptoms alone. A doctor can distinguish between them through tests, such as a physical exam, a colonoscopy, a stool test, and a biopsy.
If you experience any symptoms, it is important to see your doctor to determine the cause and receive appropriate treatment.
Symptoms
Hemorrhoids are swollen veins that cause discomfort in the anal canal, often manifested by pain and itching.
They may be found internally (i.e. within the rectum or anus), or externally protruding from or protruding from it; their development results from extra pressure being placed upon that area, leading blood vessels in muscles to dilate due to straining during bowel movement, pregnancy or sitting for extended periods of time – or simply sitting too long!
People living with hemorrhoids typically experience itching in the rectal or anal area that worsens after each bowel movement, along with bloody stool that indicates where its source may lie: bright red blood often originates in the lower digestive tract while dark red or black bleeding may come from within the colon.
Hemorrhoids generally do not require medical intervention and will usually subside on their own without symptoms, though if these worsen or continue for an extended period, it’s wise to visit your physician for diagnosis.
A physical exam and additional tests like pelvic ultrasound can often reveal issues. Sometimes a sample from suspicious areas must also be cut out and sent away for testing under microscope.
Diagnosis
Rectal bleeding can be alarming and it is wise to contact a healthcare provider as soon as possible in order to rule out cancer and instead diagnose hemorrhoids.
Hemorrhoids are swollen blood veins found in the anus and lower rectum that become painful when in contact with stool or when sitting for extended periods. Although not dangerous, hemorrhoids can be uncomfortable and embarrassing.
Common triggers for hemorrhoids include straining during bowel movements or eating foods low in fiber or high in fat content as well as constipation, diarrhea, chronic sitting for long periods and constipation/diarrhea.
Internal and external hemorrhoids exist. Internal hemorrhoids grow along the inner surface of your anus and rectum and can either be painless or uncomfortable; some prolapse, creating visible bumps that you may feel during bowel movements.
Hemorrhoids can be diagnosed through a physical exam of your anus and rectum known as a digital rectal examination, during which a gloved, lubricated finger is inserted into your anus canal by your physician. They may also perform more invasive examinations like anoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, or colonoscopy to look for abnormalities – these tests provide more information than simply visual exams alone.
Risk factors
Hemorrhoids can occur due to straining during bowel movements or pregnancy, heavy lifting, chronic constipation or diarrhea, low fiber diet and age.
Hemorrhoids may lead to itching and an itchy sensation in the rectum area as well as swelling. Untreated hemorrhoids will typically recur; home remedies or treatments such as rubber band ligation or sclerotherapy can often help control symptoms effectively.
Cancerous cells in the anus are relatively uncommon and most cases of anal cancer can be linked to human papillomavirus (HPV). Virtually everyone who has ever engaged in sexual activity has been exposed to HPV which may also cause warts on or around the anus or genital area.
Rectal bleeding should never be ignored, and should always be discussed with healthcare providers. Engaging in conversations regarding bathroom habits and related health conditions such as colorectal cancer could help identify and prevent serious health problems such as colorectal cancer.
Early-stage colorectal cancer can be detected through screenings such as colonoscopie. Regular screening for colon cancer should begin after age 45; screening should start sooner if someone has a family history of it. Early-stage colorectal cancer usually remains symptom-free but as it progresses symptoms such as bloody stool and rectal bleeding may appear.
Guidance
Hemorrhoids are not cancer, and are not associated with colon or anal cancer in any known way. If you notice blood in your stool or itching in the anal canal, consult your physician immediately; they may refer you to a colorectal surgeon specializing in bowel conditions who will run tests to ascertain the source of your symptoms.
An itchy anal canal is often associated with hemorrhoids, but it could also be an indicator of an oral cancer diagnosis or rectal cancer. Additionally, you may notice pain during bowel movements and notice protrusions from your anus; other symptoms of hemorrhoids may include rectal bleeding and blood mixed into stool.
Many of the symptoms experienced with hemorrhoids can also be found in colon cancer, leading to misdiagnosis. While hemorrhoid symptoms often resolve or go away over time, colon cancer is a potentially deadly disease caused by abnormal polyp growth along the colon lining.
Anal cancer is an uncommon and rarely diagnosed disease that develops when abnormal cells start growing abnormally in the anus, the opening at the end of a large intestine. Like cervical cancer, anal cancer may spread to other areas of your body and has links with human papillomavirus (HPV) infection.
If you suspect you might have anal cancer, speak with a healthcare provider as soon as possible for further evaluation.
