Bloating

Anal pain can be sharp, throbbing, burning or itchy – and while it’s not always easy to talk about, it’s more common than you might think. At the Rapid Access Bowel Clinic, we regularly see patients with pain around the back passage and offer sensitive, expert care to get to the bottom of the problem.

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What is anal pain?

Anal pain is discomfort in or around the anus – the area where your bowel opens. It may be:

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• Constant or only during bowel movements

• Mild or severe

• Accompanied by bleeding, itching, or swelling

• Associated with straining or hard stools

 

Pain in this area is usually caused by something relatively minor, but it can sometimes indicate a more serious issue that needs treatment.

 

What causes anal pain?

Common causes include:

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• Anal fissures – small tears in the skin around the anus, often caused by constipation or straining

• Haemorrhoids (piles) – swollen blood vessels that can be painful, especially if they thrombose (form a clot)

• Abscesses – painful collections of pus near the anus

• Fistulas – abnormal tunnels between the bowel and skin that often follow abscesses

• Skin conditions – like eczema, psoriasis or infections

• Muscle spasms – such as proctalgia fugax, a sudden sharp pain that comes and goes

• Rectal or anal cancer – rare, but should be ruled out if symptoms persist or worsen

 

When should I seek medical advice?

You should see a specialist if:

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• The pain has lasted more than a few days

• It’s interfering with your ability to sit, walk or go to the toilet

• You notice bleeding, swelling or discharge

• You’ve had a recent change in bowel habit

• You have a personal or family history of bowel or anal cancer

 

Prompt diagnosis can help you get relief and avoid complications.

 

How we investigate anal pain

At the Rapid Access Bowel Clinic, we carry out a sensitive assessment in a calm, private setting. This may include:

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• Physical examination – including a gentle inspection and digital rectal exam

• Proctoscopy – a short, painless procedure to examine the anal canal

• Imaging – such as ultrasound or MRI if an abscess, fistula or deeper issue is suspected

• Biopsy – if unusual tissue or persistent ulcers are found

 

We explain each step and prioritise your comfort at all times.

 

Treatment options

Treatment will depend on the cause. We offer:

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• Topical creams or ointments for pain, inflammation or spasm

• Advice on softening stools and avoiding straining

• Antibiotics or drainage for abscesses

• Minor procedures for haemorrhoids or fissures

• Surgery if more serious conditions are diagnosed

 

Our aim is to relieve your pain and help you feel comfortable again.