What should I do if there is a lump of tissue around the anus that cannot be retracted?
A lump protruding from the anus that cannot be retracted may be caused by physiological factors such as prolapsed hemorrhoids or rectal prolapse, as well as pathological factors including perianal abscess, anal fissure complicated with sentinel pile, anal papillary fibroma, rectal polyps, and others. Typically, treatment methods include manual reduction, medication, surgical intervention, and others, with specific choices depending on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. If abnormalities occur, timely medical consultation is recommended. Detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Prolapsed Hemorrhoids: Hemorrhoids are a common condition affecting the anal area. When internal hemorrhoids progress to a certain stage, they may protrude outside the anus during defecation or increased intra-abdominal pressure, forming a lump that cannot be retracted. Manual reduction may be attempted initially; however, if unsuccessful or if recurrence occurs frequently, surgical interventions such as hemorrhoidectomy may be considered.
2. Rectal Prolapse: Rectal prolapse refers to the downward displacement of a portion or the entire rectal wall, potentially caused by increased intra-abdominal pressure or weakened pelvic floor tissues. Severe rectal prolapse may result in a protruding lump outside the anus that cannot be retracted. Treatment generally involves manual reduction or surgical intervention, depending on the severity of the prolapse.
3. Rectal Polyps: Rectal polyps are elevated lesions on the mucosal surface of the rectum, possibly caused by inflammatory stimulation, genetic factors, or other reasons. When rectal polyps grow to a certain size, they may protrude from the anus and become irreducible, often accompanied by symptoms such as anal heaviness and bleeding. Surgical treatment, such as endoscopic polypectomy, is generally recommended.
4. Anal Fissure: An anal fissure is a longitudinal split in the anal canal skin that develops into an ischemic ulcer, often caused by constipation or increased anal pressure. Recurrent anal fissures may lead to edema of the anal valve and anal papillae at the upper end of the fissure, resulting in enlarged papillae. At the lower end, inflammation, edema, and impaired venous and lymphatic return may lead to the formation of a bag-like skin tag protruding from the anus that cannot be retracted. The primary treatment involves surgical procedures such as fissurectomy or internal sphincterotomy, along with maintaining anal hygiene and avoiding constipation.
5. Perianal Abscess: A perianal abscess is an acute suppurative infection of the soft tissues around the anus, often caused by anal gland infection. Following abscess rupture or incision and drainage, an anal fistula may develop, accompanied by symptoms such as anal pain, swelling, and fever. Physicians typically recommend treatments such as incision and drainage, seton placement, or surgical intervention to remove pus and prevent the spread of infection.
In daily life, it is important to maintain anal hygiene, avoid prolonged sitting or standing, and maintain regular bowel habits to reduce the occurrence of anal diseases. If abnormal symptoms arise, timely medical consultation is advised, and treatment should be conducted in accordance with medical guidance.