Hemorrhoids and anal cancer are very different but share several similar symptoms, such as pain, irritation and bleeding. In fact, studies have found that primary care doctors misdiagnose anal cancer as hemorrhoids during 27 percent of first visits. But while hemorrhoids are relatively harmless, anal cancer is serious and requires prompt diagnosis to treat.
“Anal cancers frequently get misdiagnosed as inflamed internal hemorrhoids because the symptoms are very similar,” says Pankaj Vashi, M.D., A.G.A.F., F.A.S.P.E.N., a gastroenterologist and Vice Chief of Staff at City of Hope® Cancer Center Chicago. “Pain, bleeding and even constipation are some of the symptoms associated with both the conditions.”
This article explores:
- What Is a Hemorrhoid?
- What Is Anal Cancer?
- Other Sources of Blood in Stool
- Anus Cancer Versus Hemorrhoids
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with cancer and are looking for a second opinion, call us 24/7 at 877-524-4673.
What Is a Hemorrhoid?
Hemorrhoids are swollen veins that develop around the anus or inside the lower rectum. They’re fairly common, affecting 1 in 20 Americans and occurring in around half of American adults over age 50.
The two main types of hemorrhoids are:
- External, which form under the skin around the anus and can protrude
- Internal, which form inside the rectum
In addition, you may have what’s called thrombosed hemorrhoids, which occur when blood gathers in external hemorrhoids and form a clot known as a thrombus.
You may also have prolapsed hemorrhoids, which are internal hemorrhoids that swell and protrude from the anus.
The symptoms of hemorrhoids may vary based on type, but, in general, hemorrhoids cause itching and irritation, as well as pain and discomfort. They may also sometimes cause bleeding.
What Does a Hemorrhoid Look Like?
Hemorrhoids aren’t always visible. Because they’re inflamed veins, thrombosed and prolapsed hemorrhoids may look like swollen lumps under the skin or outside of the anus.
What Is Anal Cancer?
Anal cancer is a rare type of gastrointestinal cancer that develops in the tissues of the anus. It forms when abnormal cells divide and grow uncontrollably in the anus. It may also be referred to as anus cancer.
The risk for developing the disease is low, with the average lifetime risk at roughly 1 in 500.
What Does Anal Cancer Look Like?
You may not be able to see or feel anal cancer during its early stages. But, like hemorrhoids, anal cancer may cause a sensation of having a lump in the anal area. It’s also often accompanied by itching or discomfort and sometimes pain in the anal or pelvic region.
Yet one of the key distinguishing features of anal cancer is bleeding. The blood may either be dark or bright red in color. (If you have hemorrhoids, the blood is usually only bright red.)
Another sign of anal cancer is changes in bowel habits, such as having persistent diarrhea or constipation.
Other Sources of Blood in Stool
Hemorrhoids and anal cancer aren’t the only possible culprits if you notice blood in your stool.
Blood in the stool comes from problems in the gastrointestinal (GI) system, which includes the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, colon and rectum. That’s why a whole host of things other than hemorrhoids and anal cancer may cause blood in the stool, including:
- Colon or rectal cancer
- Constipation
- Diverticulitis, which is swelling or inflammation in the colon
- Infection
- Polyps in the colon or rectum, which are growths that may or may not turn into cancer
- Stomach ulcers
- Trauma or fissures in the GI tract
When you see blood in your stool, you should always talk to your doctor to determine what’s causing it.
Anus Cancer Versus Hemorrhoids
While anal cancer and hemorrhoids have similar symptoms, their causes are very different, so understanding the risk factors for each can help.
You’re more likely to develop hemorrhoids, for example, if you:
- Are pregnant
- Are over age 50
- Don’t eat enough fiber
- Have chronic constipation or diarrhea
- Often lift heavy objects
- Sit on the toilet for long periods of time
- Strain during bowel movements
Risk factors for anal cancer, on the other hand, include:
- A history of certain other cancers, including vaginal, vulvar and cervical cancer
- A weakened immune system
- Anal warts
- Having multiple sexual partners
- Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection
- Smoking
How symptoms respond to local treatments and react over time is another critical difference.
“Hemorrhoids usually cause symptoms intermittently and get better with local treatment, while anal cancers will continue to cause symptoms,” Dr. Vashi says. “Pain is more prevalent with anal cancers, and it usually gets worse with time.”
He adds: “My recommendation to all patients is not to ignore any symptoms of pain, discomfort and bleeding. They need to see a physician to get a thorough rectal examination, especially if the symptoms persist or get worse with time. Anal cancers when diagnosed early are curable with chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Thus, early diagnosis is key.”
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with cancer and are looking for a second opinion, call us 24/7 at 877-524-4673.