Anal problems can be distressing and often involve significant pain, itching, or discomfort. While many people may feel embarrassed to discuss these issues, they are quite common, and most individuals will experience some form of anal discomfort during their lifetime. Fortunately, common symptoms can often be managed with appropriate treatments.
The most common anal conditions include:
- Hemorrhoids: Swollen, painful lumps around the anus, which may itch and sometimes cause bleeding during bowel movements due to ruptured hemorrhoids.
- Anal fissures: Small tears in the skin around the anus, leading to sharp pain during bowel movements, often followed by a lingering burning sensation.
- Anal warts: Small growths in or around the anal area, caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) infections, which are sexually transmitted.
- Anal itching: Itching in the anal area, which may be due to conditions like pinworm infections or fungal infections.