What are the symptoms of anal cancer?

Bleeding from the rectum is the most common symptom of anal cancer. But sometimes anal cancer does not cause any symptoms at all.

Other symptoms of anal cancer include:

• Pain or pressure around your anus

• Itching around your anus

• Discharge from your anus

• Bleeding from your anus

• Swollen lymph nodes in your anal or groin area

• A lump or swelling near your anus

• Narrower stools

• An increase or decrease in bowel movements

• Loss of control of bowel movements (incontinence)

When to see your healthcare provider

Many of these symptoms can be caused by other health problems. But it's important to see a healthcare provider if you have these symptoms. Only a healthcare provider can tell if you have cancer.