The most common symptom is bleeding from the anus, or seeing blood in the toilet or on toilet paper. This bleeding, along with itching in the anal area, cause many to attribute their symptoms to hemorrhoids. While hemorrhoids are more common than anal cancer, it's important to get a definitive diagnosis. Be sure to see your doctor if you have any of the following symptoms:
- Bleeding, itching, pain or pressure around the anus
- A change in bowel habits, such as the diameter of your stool
- Unusual discharge from the anus
- Swelling around the anus or groin
- A lump near the anus