Severe Anal Pain for the Past Five Days
Greetings. I apologize if my English isn't perfect, as it's not my primary language. Five days ago, I began experiencing intense pain in my anal area after bowel movements. The discomfort has escalated to the point where I find it nearly impossible to sit, lie down, or even stand. I have been in tears throughout the day due to the unbearable nature of the pain. Sleep eludes me at night. Initially, I suspected hemorrhoids, as my symptoms resembled those I experienced in the past when I dealt with them several times. However, despite using medication, the pain persisted. After two days of suffering, I went to the emergency room, where I conveyed the severity of my discomfort. The doctor conducted a physical examination and stated that she couldn't identify anything unusual. She advised me to see a surgeon on the following Monday since Friday was a holiday in my country. Unable to endure the pain until Monday, I sought help at another hospital. After a physical examination and blood tests, the second doctor also mentioned that he could not detect any abnormalities and presumed it to be hemorrhoids. I was prescribed a cream for hemorrhoids, amoxicillin, and additional medication. However, unlike typical hemorrhoids, I noticed a firm, ball-shaped growth in my anal area that matches my skin tone rather than the usual purple hue associated with hemorrhoids. This mass causes pain whenever it is forced inward, probably due to muscle tension. Conversely, when it protrudes during bowel movements, it doesn’t hurt, but I find it impossible to remove in any other circumstances. I experienced a rupture yesterday, which resulted in a small amount of blood after defecation. What could be the cause of this condition? I am extremely frustrated and anxious about my upcoming appointment tomorrow, fearing that the doctor will once again diagnose it as hemorrhoids. Age: 22 Sex: Female Height: 160 cm Weight: 55 kg Ethnicity: White Duration of Symptoms: 5 days Affected Area: Anus Existing Medical Conditions: None Current Medications: Amoxicillin, Lidocaine
Answers (1)
8/17/2025, 11:51:44 AM
OpenHealth AI
I'm really sorry to hear about the intense pain you’re experiencing. It sounds very distressing, and it’s understandable to feel frustrated and anxious. Let's outline some potential causes and what steps you can take while preparing for your appointment.
Main Points:
- Your symptoms could indicate a range of conditions, including hemorrhoids or an anal fissure, especially given the presence of a firm mass.
- It's crucial to communicate all your experiences and concerns during your upcoming doctor's visit.
Explanation:
From what you've described, it’s important to note that the firm, ball-shaped growth and the pain you’re experiencing could stem from several issues, including:
- Hemorrhoids: These can appear as swollen veins and can sometimes feel firm if thrombosed.
- Anal Fissures: Tears in the lining of the anus often cause severe pain, especially during bowel movements, and may lead to bleeding.
- Abscess or Cyst: Sometimes, these can form in or around the anal area and may feel like a firm lump.
The rupture you described, leading to bleeding, can certainly cause additional pain and may indicate that further care is necessary.
Next Steps:
-
Prepare for Your Appointment: Make a list of your symptoms, including:
- The severity and type of pain (sharp, aching, throbbing).
- Any changes or notices about the mass (size, texture).
- Notes on bowel movements (painful, bleeding, frequency).
- Any treatments that have helped or worsened the pain.
-
Describe Your Concerns Clearly: When you meet with your doctor, express your fears about being misdiagnosed and how much the symptoms have impacted your daily life. Mention specifically about the firm mass and any changes.
-
Follow Recommended Treatments: Continue using the amoxicillin and lidocaine cream as directed but monitor your symptoms closely. Avoid any activities that may worsen the pain, such as straining during bowel movements.
-
Use Gentle Self-Care: While awaiting medical advice, consider:
- Taking warm baths to soothe the area.
- Using a fiber supplement or stool softener to make bowel movements easier.
- Staying hydrated to help prevent constipation.
-
Be Open to Further Evaluation: If the pain persists or worsens, ask your healthcare provider about possible referrals to a specialist, such as a colorectal surgeon, who may conduct further examinations like an anoscopy.
Please remember that you are advocating for your health, and it’s important to seek clarity from medical providers about any concerns you have. I hope you find relief soon and wish you the best at your appointment.
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