Not Sure if It's Hemorrhoids or Rectal Cancer?
Hemorrhoids and rectal cancer are both conditions that can affect the rectum and anus. They can cause similar symptoms, such as rectal bleeding, pain, and itching. However, there are also some key differences between the two conditions.
Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the rectum or anus. They can be caused by straining during bowel movements, pregnancy, or obesity. Hemorrhoids are usually not serious, but they can be uncomfortable and painful.
Rectal cancer is a cancer that starts in the rectum. It is the third most common cancer in the United States. Rectal cancer can be cured if it is found and treated early.
Symptoms of Hemorrhoids and Rectal Cancer
The symptoms of hemorrhoids and rectal cancer can be similar. These symptoms include:
Rectal bleeding
Pain
Itching
A feeling of fullness in the rectum
Difficulty defecating
However, there are some key differences between the symptoms of hemorrhoids and rectal cancer:
Hemorrhoids
The bleeding is usually bright red.
The pain is usually mild and occurs during or after a bowel movement.
The itching is usually worse at night.
The feeling of fullness in the rectum is usually mild.
Difficulty defecating is usually not a symptom of hemorrhoids.
Rectal cancer
The bleeding is usually dark red or black.
The pain is usually more severe and occurs even when you are not having a bowel movement.
The itching is usually not a symptom of rectal cancer.
The feeling of fullness in the rectum is usually more severe.
Difficulty defecating is a common symptom of rectal cancer.
Diagnosis of Hemorrhoids and Rectal Cancer
Your doctor can usually diagnose hemorrhoids by performing a physical exam. Your doctor may also order a blood test or stool test to rule out other conditions.
To diagnose rectal cancer, your doctor will perform a physical exam and a colonoscopy. A colonoscopy is a procedure in which a thin, flexible tube with a camera on the end is inserted into your rectum and colon.
Treatment of Hemorrhoids and Rectal Cancer
The treatment for hemorrhoids depends on the severity of the condition. Mild hemorrhoids can be treated with over-the-counter creams or ointments. More severe hemorrhoids may require surgery.
The treatment for rectal cancer depends on the stage of the cancer. Surgery is the most common treatment for rectal cancer. Radiation therapy and chemotherapy may also be used.
Prevention of Hemorrhoids and Rectal Cancer
There are some things you can do to help prevent hemorrhoids and rectal cancer, such as:
Eating a high-fiber diet
Getting regular exercise
Avoiding straining during bowel movements
Maintaining a healthy weight
If you have any of the symptoms of hemorrhoids or rectal cancer, see your doctor right away. Early diagnosis and treatment can lead to better outcomes.
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