Rectal pain is pain in or around the anus and rectum. It can have different causes, from minor problems to more serious conditions. See a GP if you’re in a lot of pain or it does not get better in a few weeks. They will have a look, and will tell you if it is a minor problem or not, and if it is minor problem you can then confidently carry on and treat it with products from the pharmacy.
Do not feel embarrassed, your GP certainly won’t be. They check out rectal symptoms nearly every day. The concern is that the early signs of a serious rectal condition can feel like a minor problem for quite a long time, so it is important to have it looked at early on.
Common Causes:
- Anal fissures – Small tears or splits in the skin around the anus, causing sharp pain when passing lumps of poo.
- Hemorrhoids (piles) – Swollen veins in the anus, leading to pain, itching, and sometimes bleeding.
- Muscle spasms (proctalgia fugax) – Sudden, short bursts of rectal pain.
- Abscesses or infections – Swollen, painful lumps or cysts caused by bacteria.
- Fistulas – Small tunnels between the anus and skin, often due to infection.
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) – Can cause rectal discomfort along with stomach cramps and bloating.
NHS Information for Patients
Check out the NHS website for further information on Rectal Pain.
Self-Care and Pharmacy Treatments:
- Keep the area clean – Wash gently with warm water and avoid harsh soaps.
- Take warm baths – Sitting in warm water can reduce pain and swelling.
- Eat more fibre – Helps soften stools and prevent straining when pooing.
- Drink plenty of fluids – Prevents constipation and makes bowel movements (pooing) easier.
- Use over-the-counter treatments – Haemorrhoid creams and pain relievers may help.
When to See a Doctor:
- Pain that does not go away or keeps coming back.
- Bleeding from the bottom or blood in the poo.
- Pain with fever or swelling (signs of infection).
- Unexplained weight loss or changes in bowel habits.
Your doctor may suggest some tests or treatments.