Anal cancer is relatively rare, but it still accounts for about 2.5% of all digestive system cancers in the United States. Because of its location and the way symptoms can mimic less serious conditions, recognizing anal cancer can be a challenge, so it’s important to know what to look for.
At his practices in Los Angeles and Glendale, California, board-certified colon and rectal surgeon Robert G. Yavrouian, MD, provides expert care for patients with anal cancer. Read on to learn more about its symptoms and when to see a doctor for a screening.
The easiest way to identify and treat anal cancer early is to know the symptoms. Some of the most common include:
Rectal bleeding is one of the most common signs of anal cancer, affecting up to 50% of people. Although anal bleeding can also result from hemorrhoids or an anal fissure, it’s important to identify the underlying cause if it lasts for several days or more.
Is it painful when you have a bowel movement? Or do you experience an unusual pressure? While this discomfort could stem from constipation or passing a large stool, recurring pain or pressure, especially if it persists after a bowel movement, may point to anal cancer.
Anal cancer often causes discharge alongside rectal bleeding. This discharge can vary in appearance, but is often white, yellow, or brown. Sometimes it’s thick and mucus-like; other times, it’s watery or foamy. Regardless of how it looks, any discharge needs to be investigated.
Hemorrhoids commonly cause some rectal swelling, but they feel relatively soft and squishy to the touch. Growths caused by anal cancer, on the other hand, are typically larger and firmer. They’re often painful or itchy, so it’s normal to feel discomfort if you press down on them.
One less obvious sign of anal cancer is a change in your bowel habits. Like other symptoms, these changes vary from person to person but commonly include diarrhea, constipation, or even changes in the appearance of your stool. For example, regular bowel movements that become unusually thin may point to a narrowing or blockage of the anal canal.
Talking with a medical professional about your bowel movements or anal symptoms feels awkward, but it’s the best way to determine whether there’s cause for concern. Instead of self-diagnosing or attributing changes to age or common issues, like hemorrhoids, make an appointment with Dr. Yavrouian. This is especially true if your symptoms last more than a few weeks and don’t improve.
After reviewing your medical records, discussing your symptoms, and completing an exam, Dr. Yavrouian can make a diagnosis. In the rare event that you have anal cancer, early detection can significantly improve your prognosis.
Anal cancer is rare but affects people of all ages. If you’re concerned about your risk or have suspicious symptoms, don’t wait to get screened. Call the nearest office or book an appointment online with Robert G. Yavrouian, MD, today.
