Rectal Problems: Check Your Symptoms

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When to See a Doctor

Do you have swelling, a lump, a sore, or a new growth in or around your anus?

See significance of swelling, a lump, a sore, or a new growth if you need information to help you answer the questions below.

Review health risks that may increase the seriousness of your symptoms.

Call your health professional immediately if you answer "Yes" to any of the following questions.

Yes

Do you have swelling in or around your anus and moderate to severe pain?

Yes

Do you have swelling in or around your anus and a fever?

Yes

Do you have swelling in or around your anus and think that you have a moderate fever, but you are unable to measure your temperature?

Yes

Do you have diabetes?

Yes

Do you have a disease or take a medicine that causes problems with your immune system?

Call your health professional today if you answer "Yes" to any of the following questions.

Yes

Do you have swelling in or around your anus and think that you have a mild fever, but you are unable to measure your temperature?

Yes

Do you have a painful lump, sore, or growth in or around your anus?

You need an appointment within the next 1 to 2 weeks if you answer "Yes" to the following question.

Yes

Have you had a lump or swelling in or around your anus without other symptoms for longer than 2 weeks?

If you have answered "No" to the above questions, go back to Check Your Symptoms and continue to answer the questions to evaluate your symptoms.

Last updated:	May 22, 2007
Author:	Jan Nissl, RN, BS
Reviewed By:	William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine, H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer