The difference between anal warts and hemorrhoids
Disease description:
Recently, I've always felt uncomfortable during bowel movements. While showering, I felt a small lump near my anus and initially thought it was hemorrhoids. However, after a medical examination, I was diagnosed with anal warts. Could you please explain the differences between anal warts and hemorrhoids?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Cheng Yicheng
The differences between anal warts and hemorrhoids are as follows:
1. Anal warts are typically inflammatory neoplasms caused by viral infection; hemorrhoids are benign conditions resulting from dilation and protrusion of the venous plexus within the wall of the rectal and anal area.
2. Anal warts usually occur around the anus, have a softer texture than tumors, and may cluster around the anal region—sometimes even obstructing the anal opening. Some lesions may be located on the anal margin, while others extend into the anal canal, and in severe cases may progress to involve the lower rectum. Hemorrhoids primarily present with symptoms such as rectal bleeding, excessive discharge, and itching. As the condition progresses, internal hemorrhoids may prolapse outside the anal opening.
