Anal cancer symptoms

Anal cancer symptoms

When present, common symptoms of anal cancer may include:

• Anal bleeding
• Persistent or recurring anal itching
• Persistent or recurring pain in the anal area
• The feeling of a lump or mass in the anus
• Change in bowel habits (going to the bathroom more or less frequently) or increased strain during bowel movement
• A narrowing of the diameter of stool
• Abnormal discharge from the anus
• Swollen lymph nodes in the anal or groin areas

More than half of people diagnosed with anal cancer experience bleeding, which often is the first sign of disease. The symptoms of anal cancer are similar to many benign conditions, including hemorrhoids, fissures, fistulas and anal warts. It’s always important to discuss these symptoms with your doctor.