Published on: 6/11/2024
The difference between hemorrhoids and anal cancer are the appearance and hardness. Anal cancer will feel harder than hemorrhoids and may be buldging out of the anus more.
Hemorrhoids are caused by veins around the rectum and anus that swell and enlarge with blood leading to symptoms like itching, pain and bleeding. There are two types of hemorrhoids: internal and external.
Internal hemorrhoids are generally painless and cannot be felt externally unless they have prolapsed (ie: pushed out through the anus). External hemorrhoids, on the other hand, can be painful, itchy and also bleed. These can be more easily felt and seen around the anus.
Anal cancer, on the other hand, usually develops from the skin cells of the anus. Unlikely hemorrhoids, that are buldging veings, anal cancer is harder like a stone and fixed in place. Hemorrhoids tend to be softer and have less of a "stuck on" sensation.
Regardless, if you feel a mass in your anus, discuss with your provider and have them take a look.
(References)
Mott T, Latimer K, Edwards C. Hemorrhoids: Diagnosis and Treatment Options. Am Fam Physician. 2018 Feb 1;97(3):172-179. PMID: 29431977.
Gondal TA, Chaudhary N, Bajwa H, Rauf A, Le D, Ahmed S. Anal Cancer: The Past, Present and Future. Curr Oncol. 2023 Mar 11;30(3):3232-3250. doi: 10.3390/curroncol30030246. PMID: 36975459; PMCID: PMC10047250.
Share this page
For First Time Users
We provide a database of explanations from real doctors on a range of medical topics. Get started by exploring our library of questions and topics you want to learn more about.
Discuss it further with a doctor
Chat with one of our doctors to get clarity on your results and decide on your next steps.
Family Medicine, Primary Care Roots Community Health Center, Hippo Education, Kameda Medical Center
Kenji Taylor, MD
Purpose and positioning of servicesUbie Doctor’s Note is a service for informational purposes, and the provision of information by physicians, medical professionals, etc. is not a medical practice. The provision of information by physicians, medical professionals, etc. is not a medical treatment. If medical treatment is required, please consult your doctor or medical institution. We strive to provide reliable and accurate information, but we do not guarantee the completeness of the content. If you find any errors in the information, please contact us.