Anal cancer is almost twice as likely with women than with men in the US, according to 2018 statistics from the American Cancer Society (ACS). And here’s the tricky thing: cancer of the anus sometimes has no noticeable signs or symptoms. Other times, you might mistake the symptoms for something else.
Here are some of the symptoms associated with anal cancer. If you’re ever unsure, it’s best to consult a doctor to be safe.
Lumps near the anus
A lump or a bump near the anus could be caused by less serious diseases, according to the medical resource site Verywell Health. Some of these include hemorrhoids, an anal fissure, or an anal wart. However, a lump could also be a sign of anal cancer.
Rectal bleeding
According to MedicineNet, rectal bleeding is red blood from the anus. It usually comes from the colon, rectum or the anus. You can find the location of the blood based off the color of the blood. When the blood comes from the anus, it would be a bright red.
Change in bowel movements
When there is a change in bowel movements it usually leads to diarrhea or constipation, mentioned by Health 24, a health website from South Africa. There maybe a loss of control in bowel movements
Abnormal discharge from the anus
According to Medical News Today, there can be a yellow or clear mucus discharge. The discharge itself can mean many things including bacterial infections, anal fissures, and bowel obstruction. Discharge due to anal cancer is mucus or jelly-like.
Itching and swelling
According to the ACS, itching and/or swelling near the anal region can be a sign of cancer. Scratching at it may run the risk of rupturing it. This can cause an immense amount of discomfort.
Abscess
An abscess is a swollen, tender pocket of pus and it can usually form in the glands near the anus. When it becomes clogged, it may be due to the cancer. Some signs of an abscess would be pain, swelling or fever.
Sources:
https://www.cancer.org/cancer/anal-cancer/about/what-is-key-statistics.html
https://www.cancer.org/cancer/anal-cancer/detection-diagnosis-staging/signs-and-symptoms.html
https://www.verywellhealth.com/anal-cancer-symptoms-513549
https://www.medicinenet.com/rectal_bleeding/symptoms.htm
https://www.health24.com/Lifestyle/Woman/Your-body/9-signs-your-butt-discomfort-is-actually-an-anal-cancer-red-flag-20180305
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/310101.php