Anorectal Pain

Pain in the anus can have various causes, the most common being haemorrhoids and anal fissures. These conditions can cause discomfort, pain, and sometimes bleeding.

Haemorrhoids are caused by the enlargement of veins in the anal canal that form protrusions inside or outside the anus, which can cause pain or bleeding.

An anal fissure is a superficial lesion of the anal canal, at the junction between the skin and the mucous membrane of the anus. Typical symptoms are painful defecation with the presence of fresh blood on the stool or toilet paper.

It is not always possible to explain the occurrence of haemorrhoids, but some factors may contribute to their development: this is the case with constipation, especially when the stool is hard, prolonged sitting on the toilet, or pregnancy.

For anal fissures, the most common causes are related to anal trauma, especially in the case of constipation (particularly with hard stool), prolonged diarrhoea, or after childbirth.

Various treatments can be suggested. Constipation treatments are usually prescribed, with the aim of softening the stool. A local treatment in the form of a gel is also often suggested for local action. For haemorrhoids, a tablet treatment that acts directly on the enlarged veins in the anus can be prescribed.

In parallel with medications, everything possible should be done to soften the stool:

• Drink enough fluids (about 1.5 to 2 litres per day).
• Eat enough fibre (fruit, vegetables, whole grains).
• Have regular physical activity.

If your symptoms do not improve with treatment or are accompanied by alarming elements such as fever or weight loss, then medical consultation is necessary.

You can find additional information on the Planète santé website about haemorrhoids and on the Passeport santé website about anal fissure.