Hemorrhoids are a very common condition that affects about half of all people by the time they reach age fifty.
They may cause pain, itching, or bleeding, but they are usually not dangerous. Still, some people worry that these symptoms could be a sign of something more serious, like colorectal or anal cancer.
Understanding the difference between hemorrhoids and cancer is important. Although some of the symptoms may look the same, the causes and treatments are very different. Knowing what to look for and when to see a doctor can help you catch serious problems early, when they are easier to treat.
Hemorrhoids happen when the blood vessels in the anus or lower rectum become swollen or inflamed. They can be inside the body (internal) or outside the anus (external).
Hemorrhoids are often caused by things like straining during bowel movements, sitting for long periods, lifting heavy items, being overweight, eating a low-fiber diet, or pregnancy. As we get older, the tissues that support veins in the rectum can weaken, making hemorrhoids more likely.
Symptoms of hemorrhoids may include pain, itching, bleeding during bowel movements, or small lumps near the anus. The bleeding is usually bright red and happens during or just after a bowel movement. Hemorrhoids can be treated with changes in diet, over-the-counter creams, and sometimes simple procedures from a doctor.
Colorectal cancer is a different and much more serious condition. It starts in the colon or rectum and usually begins as a small growth called a polyp, which can turn into cancer over time. Colorectal cancer mostly affects people over age 45, but cases in younger people are rising. It can be deadly if not caught early.
Symptoms of colorectal cancer may include changes in bowel habits, bleeding that may be bright or dark red, unexplained weight loss, tiredness, or belly pain.
In its early stages, it often causes no symptoms, which is why regular screening is so important. A colonoscopy or other screening test can find polyps before they become cancer. If found early, colorectal cancer has a high survival rate.
Anal cancer is even less common but also serious. It begins in the anal canal and is often linked to HPV, a common virus. Symptoms can include bleeding, pain, changes in bowel habits, or lumps near the anus. Like colorectal cancer, it can be treated more easily when found early.
While hemorrhoids, colorectal cancer, and anal cancer can all cause rectal bleeding, there are differences. Hemorrhoid bleeding is usually bright red and happens with bowel movements. Cancer-related bleeding may happen at any time and can be darker. Other symptoms like weight loss, weakness, or ongoing pain are more common in cancer.
No matter what, bleeding from the anus is not normal and should always be checked by a doctor. Even though hemorrhoids are common and usually not serious, it’s important not to ignore the signs. Colorectal and anal cancers are highly treatable when caught early. Talking to a doctor about any symptoms, even if they seem small, can make a big difference.
If you are unsure or uncomfortable talking about these issues, know that you are not alone. Many people have the same concerns. There are support groups and organizations, like the Colorectal Cancer Alliance, that offer help and information.
Taking care of your health means speaking up, getting checked, and not waiting when symptoms appear. Whether it’s hemorrhoids or something more serious, early action can save lives.
For more information about gut health, please see recent studies about the crucial link between diet, gut health, and the immune system and results showing that Low-gluten, high-fiber diets boost gut health and weight loss.
For more information about gut health, please see recent studies about Navigating inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) with diet and results showing that Mycoprotein in diet may reduce risk of bowel cancer and improve gut health.
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