Benign anorectal disease
Anal conditions
There are a range of benign (non-cancerous) anal conditions you may experience. Our colorectal experts can treat you
What is benign anorectal disease?
Types of benign anorectal disease
Haemorrhoids
Anal fissure
Anal fistula
Anal abscess
Pilonidal sinus
Need to know
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What are the symptoms of benign anorectal disease? icon plus
Benign anal disorders and symptoms might include:
- Haemorrhoids: anal bleeding after passing stools, lumps around the anus, anal swelling, redness or soreness
- Anal fissure (tear/ulcer): bleeding or pain when passing stools
- Anal fistula: skin irritation/swelling around the anus, pain when you sit down, anal bleeding or pus when passing stools
- Anal abscess: pain when you sit down, anal bleeding or pus when passing stools
- Pilonidal sinus: this is a rare condition. A small hole appears at the top of the buttocks, where they divide. Symptoms are not obvious, and it may be diagnosed as a result of infection
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How is benign anorectal disease diagnosed? icon plus
Your consultant will discuss your symptoms with you and help to make a diagnosis. They will likely ask about your toilet habits. Tests we offer to diagnose different anorectal diseases include:
- A thorough examination of your buttocks and anus. This is to identify things such as fissures, lumps and abscesses
- Digital rectal examination (DRE). Using gloves and lubricant, your consultant will check for abnormalities on the inside of your anus with their finger
- In some cases a proctoscopy may be needed. A small, hollow tube with a light on the end (proctoscope) is inserted into your anus. This allows your consultant to assess your anal canal
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Potential treatment options icon plus
Your consultant will discuss your treatment options and help to determine the best approach for you. Dependent on your condition, treatment options might include:
- Pain relief medication, laxatives and creams
- For conditions such as haemorrhoids, a treatment called banding may be required. A very tight band is tied around the haemorrhoid or lump to cut off its blood supply. It should fall off naturally
- Muscle relaxant injections. A very strong poison that treats infections and fissures
- In some severe cases there are a range of surgical procedures available to you. Your consultant will of course discuss these options in detail with you
Our colorectal consultants
Our locations
From complex colorectal surgery to diagnostic tests and procedures, we provide exceptional colorectal care across our network of hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics.
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The Wellington Hospital
Wellington Place
St John's Wood
London NW8 9LE
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London Bridge Hospital
27 Tooley Street
London
SE1 2PR
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The Harley Street Clinic
35 Weymouth Street
London W1G 8BJ
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The Lister Hospital
Chelsea Bridge Road
London
SW1W 8RH
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The Princess Grace Hospital
42-52 Nottingham Place
London W1U 5NY
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London Digestive Surgery
41 Welbeck Street
London
W1G 8DU
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London Digestive Health
2nd Floor
41 Welbeck Street
London W1G 8DU
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HCA UK at The Shard
The Shard
32 St Thomas Street
London SE1 9BS
Book an appointment
Our team can help with any enquiries or you can make an appointment with one of our experienced consultants.
Call us today
020 7079 4344