What are the symptoms of anal cancer?

Question: What are the symptoms of anal cancer?

Answer: The anus is often confused with the rectum, which is the last several inches of the lower intestine. The rectum ultimately ends at the anus, where fecal material exits the body.

Like other parts of the body, the anus is susceptible to infections and diseases, such as anal cancer.

Symptoms of Anal Cancer

The symptoms of anal cancer are not unique and are also symptoms of other conditions, such as hemorrhoids. Although anal cancer is relatively simple to diagnose, this can cause a delay in diagnosis for those with anal cancer.

Symptoms of anal cancer include:

• lumps or bumps located near the anus
  
• anal bleeding or bleeding during bowel movements
  
• anal discharge
  
• pain in or around the anus
  
• itchy sensation around or inside the anus
  
• change in bowel habits, such as constipation, diarrhea and the thinning of the stools

What to Do If You Have Anal Cancer Symptoms

If you are experiencing the symptoms of anal cancer, please see your doctor. It is common for some to delay going to the doctor, because they feel embarrassed by anal symptoms or are fearful of being examined in such a private place. Please don't let these emotions prevent you from being examined by a doctor. Fortunately, anal cancer can be detected early on if the patient seeks medical care at the onset of symptoms.

_Sources:

"Can Anal Cancer Be Found Early?". Detailed Guide: Anal Cancer. American Cancer Society. 25 April 2007. Accessed Hune 20, 2008.
http://www.cancer.org/docroot/CRI/content/CRI_2_4_3X_How_Is_Anal_Cancer_Diagnosed_47.asp?rnav=cri

"What is Anal Cancer?". Detailed Guide: Anal Cancer. American Cancer Society. 25 April 2007. Accessed June 20, 2008.
http://www.cancer.org/docroot/CRI/content/CRI_2_4_1X_What_is_anal_cancer_47.asp?rnav=cri