Cancer found in the tissues which make up the anus is known as anal cancer. It is more common among people having age around 50 years. Heavy smoking is one of the major causes of anal cancer. Anus is found at the end of large intestine, below the rectum. Solid waste material leaves the body through rectum. The anus is formed from the combination of intestine and outer skin of the body. Sphincter muscles, the two ring-like structures are used for opening and closing the anal passage through which stool passes. The canal which connects the rectum and the opening of anus is about 1= inches long. Perianal area is the skin outside the anus. Having a number of sexual partners is another important reason for the development of anal cancer. Anal cancer is too common among men infected with HIV. At first, anal cancer may seem symptom less. The most important anal cancer symptoms are bleeding from the rectum or anus. Rectal bleeding is also one of the most common anal cancer symptoms. Half of the patients diagnosed with anal cancer have this symptom.

A lump may be seen near the anus which can be an indication of anal cancer. A change in the bowel habits can be experienced. Blood in the stools may be found very frequently. Disorder or injury in the digestive tract is indicated by the blood in the stools. Anal cancer symptoms may or may not cause pain. Most of them are painless in initial stages but causes pain in advanced stages.

There can be formation of open sores around the anus which doesn.t heal. An itchy sensation can be felt inside or around the anus. Mucus can be discharged from the passage at the back. Diarrhea and constipation are also major anal cancer symptoms. Constipation is that stage in which there is difficulty in passing stools out of the body. Pain during the bowel movement, no bowel movement for more than 3 days, and inability in passing a bowel movement are the consequences of constipation.

Along with this, there is always a feeling of emptying the bowel which is known as tenesmus. Tenesmus also includes pain, involuntary straining efforts and cramping. These are caused due to changes in bowel habits. The control over bowel movement weakens due to anal cancer. Inability in controlling the flow of urine may also be experienced.

The diameter of the stool may increase or decrease. The lymph nodes around the groin or anal areas may get swollen. Warts can be seen on the genitals or the anus. Persons having HIV history are more likely to develop anal cancer symptoms in them. Unwanted weight loss is also major anal cancer symptom. It will occur due to less intake of food or increased metabolism. Unintentional weight loss is not good for health. As soon as you notice any of the above mentioned symptoms of anal cancer, consult your doctor for best treatment. Anal cancer is best treated at earlier stage.