An anal thrombosis is a blood clot in the anus that usually causes severe pain. In some cases it bursts and bleeds. What to do then.
Sudden, severe pain in the anal area can indicate an anal thrombosis. A blood clot then formed in a superficial vein, blocking the vessel. One or more bulging, blue-red, pinhead to plum-sized nodules and swelling develop. The area directly around the anus is almost always affected; more rarely, anal thrombosis forms in the outermost section of the rectum.
A fresh anal thrombosis usually does not bleed – in contrast to enlarged hemorrhoids, where those affected often notice blood on the toilet paper at an early stage.
However, if the anal thrombosis has existed for a while, it may well happen that it bleeds because it has opened up: the region around the anal thrombosis is under high pressure. Therefore, just one touch can be enough to trigger bleeding – for example by wiping when going to the toilet. Even without touching, an anal thrombosis can open spontaneously, for example by pressing hard on the toilet. It is typical for the severe pain to suddenly subside.
Normally it is not dangerous if an anal thrombosis bleeds. However, if it is not (yet) clear that it is actually an anal thrombosis, those affected should definitely see a doctor as soon as possible – because bleeding can have many, including serious, causes.
Bleeding anal thrombosis usually heals on its own over time. Surgical intervention is rarely necessary. A prerequisite for healing is thorough but gentle hygiene. Aggressive washing products or strong rubbing should definitely be taboo. Instead, it is recommended to gently dab the area with lukewarm water.
However, if the symptoms do not subside or increase after a short time, medical advice is required. Pathogens may have penetrated the wound and caused inflammation.
It can take a few weeks for an anal thrombosis to heal completely.
If an anal thrombosis bleeds, it is harmless in most cases. However, it is important to clarify that there is actually an anal thrombosis – because other diseases can also be associated with bleeding.
Thorough but gentle anal hygiene with lukewarm water is recommended so that the wound can heal well. If the symptoms do not subside or become more severe, it is advisable to see a doctor.
