Hemorrhoid vs Anal Skin Tag: How Can You Tell the Difference?

At Anal Skin Tag MD, we often meet patients who are unsure whether they are dealing with hemorrhoids or anal skin tags. Both conditions can cause discomfort and lead to confusion, as they occur in the same area and share some similar characteristics. Understanding the difference between a hemorrhoid and an anal skin tag is crucial to ensure you get the right treatment for your condition. In this article, we will discuss the key differences, causes, and treatment options for both conditions, helping you make informed decisions about your health.

If you’ve been searching for “hemorrhoid vs anal skin tag” or “anus skin tag removal near me,” this guide will help you determine the best course of action. We’ll also explore why professional treatment is often the safest and most effective way to address these conditions.

What Are Hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels in the anal canal. They can be internal or external, with external hemorrhoids being more noticeable and often more uncomfortable. Internal hemorrhoids are located inside the rectum and usually aren’t visible, but they can cause bleeding or discomfort during bowel movements. External hemorrhoids, on the other hand, form under the skin around the anus and can be felt as lumps or swellings.

Common symptoms of hemorrhoids include:

• Pain or discomfort during bowel movements
• Itching or irritation around the anus
• Swelling around the anus
• Bright red blood after a bowel movement
• A feeling of fullness or pressure in the anal area

Hemorrhoids are usually caused by increased pressure in the lower rectum, often due to straining during bowel movements, chronic constipation or diarrhea, pregnancy, or prolonged sitting.

What Are Anal Skin Tags?

Anal skin tags, on the other hand, are small, soft growths of skin that develop around the anus. They are usually flesh-colored and can be mistaken for external hemorrhoids because of their location. However, unlike hemorrhoids, anal skin tags do not involve swollen blood vessels. They are simply excess pieces of skin that have developed due to friction, trauma, or stretching of the skin. Skin tags can result from a variety of causes, including the healing of hemorrhoids, pregnancy, or even aging.

Symptoms of anal skin tags include:

• Small, painless, soft flaps of skin near the anus
• Mild irritation or itching
• Difficulty maintaining proper hygiene

Unlike hemorrhoids, anal skin tags typically do not cause significant pain or bleeding. However, they can be bothersome, especially when it comes to keeping the area clean or during intimate moments. Many people seek professional treatment to remove skin tags for improved hygiene and comfort.

Hemorrhoid vs. Anal Skin Tag: How to Tell the Difference

When trying to determine whether you have a hemorrhoid or an anal skin tag, it’s important to consider the symptoms and characteristics of each condition. Here’s a quick breakdown of the key differences between hemorrhoid vs anal skin tag:

1. Appearance and Feel
   • Hemorrhoids: Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels, so they often appear as lumps or bulges around the anus. External hemorrhoids can feel firm or tender, especially when inflamed.
   • Anal Skin Tags: Anal skin tags are soft, flesh-colored flaps of skin. They are typically painless and feel like loose, excess skin rather than a lump.
2. Pain and Discomfort
   • Hemorrhoids: Hemorrhoids can cause significant pain, itching, and irritation, especially during bowel movements. External hemorrhoids can also become thrombosed, meaning a blood clot forms inside them, causing intense pain.
   • Anal Skin Tags: Anal skin tags are generally painless. They may cause mild irritation or discomfort, but they don’t produce the sharp pain associated with hemorrhoids.
3. Bleeding
   • Hemorrhoids: Hemorrhoids, especially internal ones, can cause bleeding during bowel movements. You may notice bright red blood on the toilet paper or in the toilet bowl.
   • Anal Skin Tags: Anal skin tags do not bleed unless they become irritated or inflamed due to excessive rubbing or poor hygiene.
4. Size Changes
   • Hemorrhoids: Hemorrhoids can change in size, becoming larger or more inflamed during flare-ups. In some cases, hemorrhoids may shrink on their own or with treatment.
   • Anal Skin Tags: Anal skin tags typically stay the same size over time. They may become slightly larger due to irritation, but they don’t fluctuate in size the way hemorrhoids do.

Treatment Options for Hemorrhoids

At Anal Skin Tag MD, we provide expert care for both hemorrhoids and anal skin tags. Treatment for hemorrhoids will depend on their severity, location, and the patient’s symptoms. Common treatments for hemorrhoids include:

1. Lifestyle Changes
   For mild hemorrhoids, lifestyle changes such as increasing fiber intake, drinking plenty of water, and avoiding prolonged sitting can help reduce symptoms.
2. Topical Treatments
   Over-the-counter creams and ointments can help relieve itching, pain, and swelling associated with hemorrhoids. These treatments are often effective for temporary relief.
3. Minimally Invasive Procedures
   For more severe hemorrhoids, procedures such as rubber band ligation (where a small band is placed around the hemorrhoid to cut off its blood supply) or sclerotherapy (injection therapy) may be recommended.
4. Surgery
   In cases of large or persistent hemorrhoids, surgery such as a hemorrhoidectomy may be necessary to remove them completely.

Treatment Options for Anal Skin Tags

For those dealing with anal skin tags, professional removal is often the best option for both comfort and hygiene. At Anal Skin Tag MD, we offer skin tag removal Los Angeles CA, using safe, effective methods to remove these tags quickly and with minimal discomfort. Treatment options include:

1. Surgical Removal
   Surgical removal of anal skin tags is a simple, outpatient procedure that can be done under local anesthesia. Dr. Kamrava, our experienced surgeon, carefully removes the skin tags, ensuring that the surrounding tissue is unharmed.
2. Cryotherapy
   In some cases, cryotherapy may be used to freeze the skin tag, causing it to fall off naturally over time. This method is less commonly used for anal skin tags but may be an option for certain patients.
3. Laser Removal
   Laser treatments offer a precise and minimally invasive way to remove anal skin tags. This method is highly effective and allows for a quick recovery.

Why Professional Removal Is Important?

Whether you’re dealing with hemorrhoids or anal skin tags, it’s important to seek professional care. Trying to treat these conditions on your own can lead to complications, including infection, scarring, or prolonged discomfort. Professional anus skin tag removal near me ensures that you receive the proper diagnosis and treatment in a safe, sterile environment.

At Anal Skin Tag MD, we prioritize your comfort, safety, and privacy throughout the treatment process. Our expert team is here to help you find relief from the discomfort of hemorrhoids or anal skin tags and restore your confidence.

Schedule a Consultation with Dr. Kamrava Today!

If you’re unsure whether you have a hemorrhoid or an anal skin tag, or if you’re ready to explore your treatment options, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Kamrava at Anal Skin Tag MD. Our experienced team is here to guide you through every step of the process, ensuring you get the right treatment for your needs.

Don’t wait to find relief—contact us today and set up your consultation with Dr. Kamrava. Visit our website at to learn more about our services and discover how we can help you achieve lasting comfort and confidence.