Hard lump around anus

External hemorrhoids may also cause difficulties keeping the anal area clean after bowel movements. Symptoms of anal cancer can include: bleeding from the bottom rectal bleeding itching and pain around the anus small lumps around the anus a discharge of mucus from the anus loss of bowel control bowel incontinence Some people with anal cancer do not have any symptoms. Learn more about anal warts here. But bleeding is often the first sign of the disease. The following information is from the National Cancer Institute. It can also be painful, particularly when passing a stool.