What causes lumps near or inside the anus?

Lumps near or inside the anus can have several potential causes. These lumps may vary in size, location, and whether they cause pain. The most common causes include:

1. Hemorrhoids: Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels in the anal area. They can be internal (inside the rectum) or external (near the anus). Internal hemorrhoids are usually painless but may cause bleeding during bowel movements, while external hemorrhoids can cause discomfort, itching, swelling, and sometimes pain.
2. Anal skin tags: These are harmless excess pieces of skin near the anus. They are often painless, but can be bothersome when it comes to hygiene. Skin tags often develop after an external hemorrhoid has healed.
3. Anal abscesses or infections: Sometimes, an infection can lead to a buildup of pus in the anal region, creating a painful lump. This condition requires medical attention and may need to be drained by a doctor.
4. Thrombosed hemorrhoids: When a blood clot forms in an external hemorrhoid, it can cause a hard, painful lump near the anus. Thrombosed hemorrhoids can be especially painful and may require treatment to relieve symptoms.
5. Cysts or growths: In some cases, non-cancerous cysts, warts, or other growths can develop near or inside the anus. Though usually painless, these should be evaluated by a doctor to rule out any serious conditions.
6. Fissures: An anal fissure is a small tear in the lining of the anus, which may cause a painful lump if swelling occurs. Fissures are often associated with passing large or hard stools.
7. Cancer: In rare cases, a lump near or inside the anus may be a sign of anal or colorectal cancer, especially if accompanied by other symptoms like bleeding, weight loss, or changes in bowel habits. It’s important to consult a healthcare provider if you have concerns.

Rare and Uncommon Causes of Anal Lumps

While most lumps near or inside the anus are caused by common issues like hemorrhoids or skin tags, it is important to recognize rare conditions that may present similarly. For example, a perianal hematoma (a sudden swelling of blood under the skin, often after trauma or straining) can cause a hard, often painful lump near the anus.

Hidradenitis suppurativa is a chronic skin disease resulting in tender lumps and abscesses, and can occur in the perianal region, especially in people with a history of recurrent boils or skin infection. Other rare causes include molluscum contagiosum (a viral infection with small bumps), lymphatic cysts, and benign or malignant growths.

Risk Factors and Prevention for Anal Lumps

Developing a lump near the anus may be influenced by several risk factors, and prevention is possible in many cases. Common risk factors include chronic constipation or diarrhea, straining during bowel movements, family history of hemorrhoidal disease, and high-risk sexual behavior (for viral warts and some infections).

Preventive steps include maintaining a high-fiber diet and adequate hydration to prevent hard stools, practicing good anal hygiene, and reducing prolonged sitting on hard surfaces. Additionally, HPV vaccination can reduce the risk of anal warts.

When to Seek Medical Advice

If you notice any lumps near or inside of your anus, whether they are painful or not, it’s a good idea to see a doctor. They can assess the cause and recommend appropriate treatment. Be sure to seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe pain, bleeding, or if the lump grows quickly.

See also:

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