The pain is experienced during a bowel movement but may persist over time.
Hemorrhoids
A hemorrhoid is a swollen, inflamed vein in the rectum or on the anus.
Although some hemorrhoids can cause no symptoms, others can be pretty painful.
Verywell / Nusha Ashjaee
You may experience itchiness and see bright red blood in the stool or on your toilet paper.
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is also associated with hemorrhoids.
Rectal Tenesmus
Tenesmusis the urge to pass stool even when no more exists.
It is often accompanied by pain, straining, or cramping.
Tenesmus typically manifests itself alongside other medical conditions.
Muscle Spasms
Anal pain can also result from muscle spasms in the pelvic area.
This manifests itself as a sharp pain that goes away quickly.
Associated Health Conditions
Other health conditions may also be the reason behind anal pain.
Summary
Anal pain can have several possible causes.
Most, like hemorrhoids and anal fissures, are not severe.
Still, it is essential to see a healthcare provider if you continue to experience anal pain.
Anal pain can be treated at home with over-the-counter (OTC) pain medication and sitz baths.
American Society of Colon & Rectal Surgeons.Anal pain.
Beaty JS, Shashidharan M.Anal fissure.Clin Colon Rectal Surg.
2016;29(01):030-7. doi:10.1055/s-0035-1570390
National Library of Medicine.
Crohns and Colitis Canada.Anal fissures and hemorrhoids.
- doi:10.1089/jpm.2019.0139
National Library of Medicine.
