Anal Disorders: Common Problems, Symptoms and Diagnosis

What the anus is

Your anus is the opening at the end of the large intestine, where stool (poop) leaves the body.

Common disorders

Problems with the anus are common. They include:

• hemorrhoids;
• abscesses;
• fissures — small cracks or tears in the lining of the anus;
• anorectal fistula — an abnormal tunnel from the anus or rectum to the skin;
• anal itching (pruritus ani);
• cancer.

Symptoms

They depend on the disorder, but common ones include bleeding, discharge, itching, pain and swelling.

Diagnosis

Your provider will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and may:

• look at the skin around the anus for anything abnormal;
• do a digital rectal exam (DRE) — feeling inside the lower rectum with a lubricated, gloved finger for lumps or anything unusual;
• order tests, such as an anoscopy.

Don't let embarrassment stop you. Tell your provider about your symptoms — especially pain or bleeding. The more detail you give, the better they can help.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the condition you have.

Sources

Based on the MedlinePlus health topic "Anal Disorders," National Library of Medicine, drawing on the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases; a work of the United States government in the public domain.