Anal Pain
Anal Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and When to See a Specialist in the Seattle–Bellevue Area
Anal and rectal pain is one of the most uncomfortable symptoms patients experience—and one of the most common reasons people search for a colorectal specialist near Seattle or Bellevue. While many people assume anal pain is “just hemorrhoids,” several different conditions can cause pain in this area, each requiring a different treatment approach.
At Precision Proctology, we commonly evaluate anal pain caused by:
Anal abscess
Thrombosed hemorrhoids
Anal fissures
Levator (pelvic floor) muscle spasm
Understanding the difference can help you get relief faster and avoid unnecessary suffering.
Anal Abscess: Progressive, Throbbing Pain That Needs Prompt Care
An anal abscess is an infection near the anus that leads to a buildup of pus. This condition often causes constant, worsening pain and does not resolve on its own.
Common symptoms include:
Deep, throbbing anal or rectal pain
Swelling or redness near the anus
Pain that worsens quickly over 24-48 hours
Fever or chills in some cases
Why early evaluation matters:
Anal abscesses typically require drainage. Delaying treatment can increase the risk of complications, including fistula formation. If you have worsening pain or signs of infection, you should be evaluated by a colorectal specialist promptly.
Thrombosed Hemorrhoid: Sudden Severe Pain With a Tender Lump
A thrombosed external hemorrhoid occurs when a blood clot forms in a hemorrhoid near the anal opening. Usually related to bowel difficulties/straining or even diarrhea
Typical symptoms:
Sudden onset of intense pain
A firm, tender lump at the anal opening
Pain that peaks over the first few days
Possible bluish or purple discoloration
While very painful, thrombosed hemorrhoids are not dangerous. Many improve on its own, though select patients may benefit from an in-office procedure for faster relief.
Anal Fissure: Sharp Pain During and After Bowel Movements
An anal fissure is a small tear in the anal canal, often related to constipation or straining.
Classic signs include:
Sharp or burning pain during bowel movements
Pain that can last hours afterward
Bright red blood on toilet paper
Tightness or spasm of the anal muscles
Many fissures persist because muscle spasm reduces blood flow and prevents healing. Treatment focuses on relaxing the muscle with creams, improving stool consistency, and restoring healing—often without surgery.
Levator Spasm: Deep Rectal Pain Without a Visible Problem
Levator spasm, also known as pelvic floor muscle spasm, causes rectal pain without visible swelling or bleeding.
Symptoms may include:
Deep, aching or pressure-like rectal pain
Pain that worsens with sitting
Sharp, shooting pains up inside the rectum. Often awakens people from sleep
Intermittent or chronic discomfort
Normal exam findings
This condition is frequently misdiagnosed as hemorrhoids. Treatment is focused on pelvic floor relaxation and muscle coordination with Pe;vic Floor Physical Therapists, not surgery.
Why Seeing a Colorectal Specialist Matters
Anal pain can have many causes that feel similar but require very different treatments. Seeing a board-certified colorectal specialist in the Seattle–Bellevue area allows for:
Accurate diagnosis
Targeted treatment
Faster symptom relief
Avoidance of unnecessary procedures
Most evaluations are straightforward and focused on comfort and privacy.
When to Seek Urgent Evaluation
You should seek prompt care if you experience:
Severe or worsening anal pain
Fever or chills
Increasing swelling or redness
Pain lasting more than a few days
Recurrent or unexplained rectal pain
Expert Anal Pain Care in the Seattle–Bellevue Area
Anal and rectal pain can significantly affect your quality of life—but it is highly treatable with the right diagnosis. Early evaluation often leads to faster relief and better outcomes.
If you’re experiencing anal pain and searching for a colorectal surgeon or rectal pain specialist near Seattle or Bellevue, expert care is available.