Dermatologists.org

Can Piles Cause Skin Tags?

Skin tags are believed to be caused by friction. That’s one reason why they are commonly found on areas of the body where skin frequently rubs against skin. These areas include places like the neck, under the arms, and even eyelids.

They can also form around the anus due to the loose skin located in that area. However, it’s not common for the skin of the anus to result in rubbing unless something stretches it out. That’s why piles can increase the risk of skin tags forming around the anus.

To better understand how piles cause skin tags, we’ll look at what they are, and how hemorrhoids can contribute to anal skin tags. We’ll also cover symptoms you should look for, and ways they can be treated. Because of the sensitivity of the area, treatment for anal skin tags may be slightly different than treatment elsewhere on the body.

If you’ve never experienced piles, it’s important to know how they are caused. Attempting to prevent them is the best way to avoid skin tags on the anus. Unfortunately, they are not always completely preventable. Let’s look at what to expect when piles on the anus have contributed to the formation of skin tags.

What Are Piles?

Piles are also known as hemorrhoids. There are different grades of piles to consider. However, they are all swollen veins or muscles that form around the anus. They tend to develop when the tissue around the anus becomes too swollen. Swollen soft tissue on the anus typically develops due to straining.

The different grades of piles are dependent on how far they come out of the anus. They start out as internal piles, and the grades continue from there.

Different Grades of Piles

  • First grade – Piles that don’t come out of the anus. They may still be painful, and can even bleed.
  • Second grade – These piles may come out of the anus when you experience a bowel movement. However, they go back in and don’t remain out of the anus regularly.
  • Third grade – Third-degree piles do remain out of the anus, and won’t go back in unless they are pushed.
  • Fourth grade – These are the most painful type of piles. They always remain outside of the anal canal, and cannot be pushed back in.

What Are the Causes?

  • Pregnancy (additional pressure to the abdomen)
  • Extensive diarrhea
  • Genetics
  • Aging
  • Constipation that causes straining

What Are the Symptoms?

For some people, piles are very noticeable because they can cause pain and bleeding. However, it depends on the severity of the hemorrhoids. Other symptoms to look out for include:

  • Bleeding during a bowel movement
  • Soreness around the anus
  • A lump in/around the anus

Keep in mind that these symptoms could be the result of other underlying health conditions. If you’re still uncertain as to whether or not you’re dealing with piles, see your doctor as soon as possible.

How Do Hemorrhoids Cause Skin Tags?

Usually, anal skin tags are caused by piles. The stretching and swelling of the surrounding skin can cause a skin tag to form. These benign growths, also called rectal skin tags, are usually not painful, and may not even be noticeable if they are small enough.

While the skin tag itself shouldn’t cause any problems, if it’s left untreated, it could cause another hemorrhoid. This is due to the proximity of the skin tag to the previously swollen vein(s).

There are no real symptoms to be concerned about when it comes to rectal skin tags. Removal can be difficult in the anal area, so unless the skin tags start to cause a problem, you may choose to ignore them.

Sometimes, however, fecal matter can get trapped underneath the skin tag if it’s large enough. This can lead to additional inflammation and irritation. If you do develop a skin tag due to piles and it becomes irritated, it’s best to contact a doctor for treatment.

How to Remove Anal Skin Tags

If you choose to treat a skin tag at home, the anal canal is certainly not a place to risk infection. It can also hurt a lot. So, it’s important to use a natural treatment solution. Choose a skin tag cream with only natural ingredients or one that is free of harmful chemicals.

Another home solution that you could use is tea tree oil. Tea tree oil has antiseptic, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties, and is widely known as a natural treatment option for skin tags. These natural solutions may take longer to treat the skin tag, but they are safe to use. As always, you need to check to see how your body reacts to the formula.

Another option is to have the skin tag(s) removed by a doctor. Unfortunately, unless the skin tag has caused other health problems, most skin tag removal procedures can be quite expensive and are not covered by insurance. However, if the skin tags in or around the anus are causing discomfort, getting them removed can make a big difference.

Does piles cause skin tags to grow?

To remove, your doctor will typically apply a numbing agent to the area. There are several they can remove skin tags quickly and effectively.

Some of the most common removal methods include:

These treatments only require one visit to the doctor and are relatively painless. They are also safe, and you can walk away with all of your skin tags gone from the rectal area.

Here is some information on anal skin tag recovery times.

Is There a Way to Prevent Piles?

Some people are more prone to getting piles than others. However, there are a few management tips that can help. Be sure to eat foods that are high in fiber, and drink plenty of water. Additionally, you may want to take fiber supplements. Most importantly, avoid straining when you have a bowel movement.

Piles can contribute to causing skin tags. While the tags may not be painful, they can become a nuisance if enough start to form. Do what you can to avoid hemorrhoids in the first place, and you’ll reduce your chances of getting anal skin tags.

Scroll to Top