Rectal or anal pain is a very sophisticated issue. It affects an estimated 1 in every 4 adults at some point in their lives. Many hesitate to talk about it due to embarrassment. The discomfort may be mild, sharp, or persistent. It
often interferes with everyday activities such as sitting, passing stool, or walking. Studies and clinical observations in Bangladesh show that a large number of patients seek help only after symptoms become severe. But early evaluation
can prevent complications.
Constipation or piles can usually cause pain. It also suggests an underlying illness. In this blog, we will diagnose anal pain, discuss common causes, and discuss available treatments.
Rectal or anal pain refers to discomfort felt in or around the anus and lower rectum. When you have a bowel movement or pressure on this area, it may feel like burning, swelling, pressure, or sharp pain. The pain can be short-term
or ongoing, depending on the cause. If it is identified early, then it is preventable.
Common causes of rectal pain
Rectal pain can happen for many reasons. It is uncomfortable because it affects daily activities like sitting or passing stool. If it is a minor issue, it can be improved easily. But when it's unbearable, then it needs medical attention.
Understanding the common reasons helps you know when to seek proper treatment.
Anal Fissure
An anal fissure is a small tear in the anal skin, usually caused by passing hard stool. It leads to:
Sharp pain during bowel movement
A burning sensation afterward
Small streaks of blood on the stool
Hemorrhoids (Piles)
Piles are swollen veins inside or around the anus. Symptoms may include:
Pain or discomfort while sitting
Bleeding during stool
Itching or swelling
Infection or Abscess
An anal abscess occurs when a gland near the anus becomes infected. Patients may experience:
Constant throbbing pain
Swelling near the anus
Fever or warmth in the area
Note: This requires urgent medical care.
Anal fistula
It is a small tunnel that forms between the anal canal and skin. It often develops after an infection.
Common signs:
Anal Pain
Discharge or leakage
Recurrent infections
Proctitis
Inflammation of the rectum related to infection, inflammatory bowel disease, or radiation therapy. Symptoms include:
Rectal pain
Feeling of needing to pass stool repeatedly
Mucus discharge
Constipation
Passing hard or dry stools may stretch the anal canal, and cause temporary pain or small tears.
Muscle spasm (proctalgia fugax)
Sudden contraction of anal muscles causes sharp, brief pain. It usually happens during nighttime.
Skin conditions
Skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, or dermatitis near the anal area can lead to itching, a burning sensation, and persistent discomfort.
Rectal cancer may be another important cause of anal pain. These signs include persistent pain in the rectum, bleeding, or a change in bowel habits.
How is anal pain diagnosed?
A colorectal surgeon in Bangladesh diagnoses rectal pain by proper physical examination. In the first step, he checked the affected area. Most of the time, a basic physical examination is enough. If the symptoms feel serious, an anal
specialist may recommend the following medical tests:
Medical history review
The doctor asks about:
Pain duration
Stool habits
Bleeding
Dietary patterns
Previous infections or surgeries
Physical examination
A gentle examination of the anal area helps identify fissures, hemorrhoids, infection, or swelling.
Digital rectal examination (DRE)
The doctor checks the rectum for abnormalities, masses, or tenderness.
Anoscopy or Proctoscopy
A small device allows close inspection of the anal canal and rectum.
Colonoscopy
Recommended when symptoms are persistent and unexplained or when cancer or polyps need to be ruled out.
Imaging Tests
Ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI may be used for deeper infections, fistulas, or complex cases.
Treatment options for rectal pain
Treatment depends on the underlying cause. Most conditions can be treated effectively when diagnosed early.
Medication
Doctors may prescribe:
Pain-relief medicines
Stool softeners to ease bowel movements
Antibiotics for infections
Anti-inflammatory creams or ointments
Lifestyle & Home care
Simple changes can bring quick relief:
Drink plenty of water
Eat high-fiber foods
Avoid straining during stool
Use warm water baths (sitz baths).
Maintain proper hygiene
Non-surgical procedures
Depending on the cause, treatments may include:
Rubber band ligation for hemorrhoids
Injection therapy
Drainage of abscess
Botox injections for severe muscle spasms
Surgical treatment
Surgery may be required for:
Chronic anal fissures
Fistulas
Large or complicated hemorrhoids
Recurrent abscesses
Rectal cancer
When should you see a doctor?
Some signs may feel small in the beginning, but seeing a doctor early helps find hidden problems and manage them before they grow more serious. Sometimes rectal or anal pain keeps coming back, gets worse, or affects your daily activities;
it’s better to get checked.
Pain lasts more than a few days
There is blood in the stool
You have swelling or a fever
The stool becomes extremely painful to pass
There is discharge from the anal area
You have a family history of colorectal disease
Consult with an expert colorectal surgeon in Bangladesh—Prof. Dr. Tariq Akhtar Khan
Prof. Dr. Tariq Akhtar Khan is one of the leading colorectal specialists in Bangladesh. He has extensive expertise in managing anal fissures, hemorrhoids, anal fistulas, infections, and other
anorectal conditions. His treatment is based on up-to-date medical evidence, with full attention given to each patient. From diagnosing the problem to providing advanced surgical care, he aims for safe results at every stage.
If you have ongoing discomfort or need a second opinion, early consultation can help you recover faster and avoid complications.
Rectal pain can come from common problems like fissures, hemorrhoids, constipation, infections or cancer. Sometimes, it is related to health problems that require professional care.
Most situations are harmless. But if the pain keeps going, gets worse, or comes with bleeding, it’s best to see a doctor. Getting checked early can stop further problems.
If the pain lasts for days, sitting becomes uncomfortable, bowel movements hurt, or you see blood or swelling, you should consult a colorectal surgeon.
Warm baths, high-fiber foods, and proper hydration may reduce mild discomfort. If the pain does not improve, medical treatment is usually needed.
Our colorectal specialist reviews patients by checking the symptoms and doing a complete physical exam of the anal area. Sometimes, additional tests may be required, like anoscopy or colonoscopy, that determine the exact cause.
Discover comprehensive and effective colon and rectal polyp treatment in Bangladesh with Prof. Dr. Tariq Akhtar Khan. Get advanced care and personalized treatment now!
