Hemorrhoids, polyps, and bump on the anus are conditions that concern the colon. They have a lot of similarities in terms of symptoms. These three diseases all have an effect to the anorectal area, as well as the lower portion of the rectum. Also, they involve bleeding especially during bowel movements. Because of these commonalities, finding the difference among these colon illnesses can be difficult. But, how can we really distinguish one from the other?
How to Differentiate Hemorrhoids, Polyps, and Bump on the Anus Through Their Location and Severity:
Hemorrhoids involve swollen veins located at the lower part of the anal canal or the rectum. Pain and itching are often experienced by individuals with hemorrhoids. However, hemorrhoids are not life-threatening and can be experienced by everyone.
On the contrary, polyps, in most cases, are found on the surface of large intestines. Sometimes, they grow in other areas of the gastrointestinal tract. Polyps are tumors that are not cancerous but can transform into one over time. Patients with polyps usually experience pain in the abdomen.
Bump on the anus, on the other hand, are small lumps. It causes a burning sensation and knife-like pain on the rectal area while trying to have a bowel movement. Unlike polyps, bump on the anus is benign and do not pose any serious threat to one’s health.
How to Differentiate Hemorrhoids, Polyps, and Bump on the Anus Through Their Causes:
Several factors such as pregnancy, old age, obesity, heavy lifting, and chronic diarrhea can bring about hemorrhoids. Most of these causes are a source of heightened pressure on the intraabdomenal area, which makes vessels dilate. Polyps, on the other hand, tend to arise in individuals who have a poor lifestyle, are fifty years old and beyond, and have a history of cancer in the family.
Whereas in bump on the anus, constipation is the primary culprit. Hard and dry manure can strain the rectum so much, thus irritates the skin within the area.
How to Differentiate Hemorrhoids, Polyps, and Bump on the Anus Through Their Treatment:
Hemorrhoids are easy to cure. Treatment for this disease includes changes in diet and lifestyle, and use of over the counter creams, and suppositories. Likewise, bump on the anus can be healed by wiping pads with witch hazel, eating fiber-rich foods, and drinking plenty of water. However, the only solution to polyps is surgical excision. Through this process, polyps are completely removed from the gastrointestinal tract to prevent them from developing into malignant tumors.
Although these three illnesses are different in many ways, another common thing about them is that they can be avoided. Hemorrhoids, polyps, and bump on the anus can be successfully prevented by living a healthy lifestyle—maintaining a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding illegal drugs and cigarette smoke. However, if you suspect that you have any of these colon conditions or if symptoms persist after self-medicating, it is best to have it diagnosed by a medical professional. The doctor will help you know the real problem and prescribe an appropriate treatment program for your condition.