BY DEAN PAPPAS M.D.
Anal pain is a very real condition that many people feel ashamed to discuss. However, anal pain can be a symptom of several different health problems, so it is important for patients to be open and honest when discussing anal pain with a doctor. The doctors at Colon & Rectal Surgical Specialists of New York understand the possible causes of anal pain. We can discuss symptoms with patients in order to diagnose anal and colon health problems so we can offer effective treatment. One possible symptom of anal pain is anal ulcers. We can discuss the symptoms of anal ulcers and anal ulcer treatments for our Long Island patients.
Symptoms of Anal Ulcers
Anal ulcers range in severity and as a result, patients may experience different symptoms, or experience those symptoms to a different degree. While exact symptoms may vary by patient, below are some possible symptoms of anal ulcers:
- Anal pain
- Straining during bowel movements
- Constipation
- Feeling as though bowel movements are incomplete
- Incontinence
- Rectal bleeding or a passing of mucus from the rectum
- Pain in the pelvis
- A bloated or “full” feeling around the pelvis
If any of these symptoms are experienced, it is important to schedule an appointment with a doctor as soon as possible to receive diagnosis and discuss treatment.
Treatments
Because each case is unique, treatment will vary by patient. There are many treatments to consider and the best treatment will likely be determined after considering a patient’s symptoms and examining his or her condition. Below are some treatment options for patients with anal ulcers:
- Behavioral modification: In the most minor cases of anal ulcers, behavior modification may help to alleviate symptoms. These modifications involve teaching patients to better control rectal muscles and relax anal muscles during bowel movements.
- Medication: In many cases, even those patients with mild symptoms of anal ulcers can benefit from medicinal treatment. Medical treatment options include the use of topical steroids, medicated enemas, and BOTOX® injections.
- Surgery: If anal ulcer symptoms are severe or if alternate treatment options fail, surgery will likely be necessary. There are two surgeries that may be considered in the treatment of anal ulcers. The first is a rectopexy. A rectopexy is performed when anal ulcers are the result of rectal prolapse, where the rectal walls protrude from the anus. This procedure is performed to secure the rectum in its correct position. The second surgical option is a procedure to remove the rectum. This procedure is often only considered in the most severe cases of anal ulcers.
Schedule an Appointment
If you are experiencing anal pain or have other symptoms of anal ulcers, it is important to see a doctor who specializes in colorectal care. Our team of doctors at Colon & Rectal Surgical Specialists can diagnose health problems involving the colon and rectum to relieve you of the discomfort of anal pain. Schedule an appointment with one of our skilled and understanding doctors at your earliest convenience. We look forward to hearing from you.
