If you suffer from anal itching, don’t be ashamed. Surprisingly, you will discover that you are not the only one. Anal itching, medically called “pruritus ani,” is a common ailment suffered by many people. It affects millions of people in the United States.
The main symptom is skin irritation. This problem is more serious around the rectum or anus. This irritation causes a desire to scratch. It is important to note that the problem is primarily related to increased pressure, moisture, and chafing caused by clothing and sitting. In the worst cases, anal itching causes great discomfort that is often accompanied by burning and pain. The more you scratch, the worse it gets. This problem can lead to more serious problems. Anal itching can be caused by many things. The website, WebMD, says, “The problem can be caused by: Irritating chemicals in the foods we eat, such as spices, hot sauces, and peppers. Other problems that cause anal itching include pinworms, hemorrhoids, and anal skin tears ( known as cracks).
Anal itching affects people of all ages. Regardless of your body type, age or health. This problem occurs equally in men and women.
Home treatment for rectal itching depends on the cause of the itching. But because anal itching can be caused by many things, it can be a lengthy process to determine the source. My absolute best advice is to go see a medical professional. But if you’re like 44 million other Americans, having not paid for health care, you may not have the funds. If you live in the Washington, DC area and don’t have paid health insurance, go to Unity Health Care. They will work with you if you have no money or little income. Their services are set out on a sliding scale.
If you don’t trust doctors and are interested in some home remedies, give it a try.
Poor hygiene is a considered cause of anal itching. Try to clean the area gently with cotton balls moistened with water, a warm washcloth, or moistened wipes, such as Tucks or “baby wipes.” A mild ointment, such as A+D Ointment or Desitin, can be applied to help soothe the skin and protect it from further irritation.
Try to avoid scented or colored toilet paper or scented soaps. Remember to buy white, unscented toilet paper. Don’t use scented soaps, which can irritate your skin. Apply an ointment that contains 1% hydrocortisone. Do not use other steroid creams on this sensitive area of your body; skin damage may occur. Hydrocortisone cream should not be used for more than 7 to 10 days without talking to your doctor. Note: Do not use the cream on children under 2 years of age unless directed by your doctor. Do not use in the rectal or vaginal area in children under 12 years of age unless directed by your doctor.
Try not to use other steroid creams on this sensitive area. It can thin the skin and cause breakouts. So you have a whole new set of problems. Always follow the directions on the hydrocortisone cream box. It is recommended not to use Benadryl cream, which contains antihistamines. However, you can take oral Benadryl allergy tablets. Many people have noted great success with the product. And remember that taking Benadryl for allergies can make you drowsy.
Another problem is sweating. With anal itching caused by excessive sweating, avoid wearing tight underwear and wear cotton underwear, rather than synthetic ones. Cotton is a natural fiber and is breathable. Talcum powder is also another option. Please do not use cornstarch. There have been cases of a skin infection. Some medical professionals and websites ask that you dry the rectal area with a hair dryer on the low setting before applying powder. Whatever you do, don’t rub the irritated area. If you don’t have any of these things, take unwrapped paper towels or toilet paper and place it on your crevice, right in front of your anus. This will allow circulation between the buttocks and help the area dry out.
To control itching To control itching, try the following:
- Breaks the cycle of itching and scratching. The more you scratch, the longer the problem will last. The problem may be worse at night, take an oral antihistamine before bed.
- Try taking a warm sitz bath. Do this three times a day, after each bowel movement or as needed.
- Avoid caffeine, soft drinks, beer, liquor, excessive amounts of vitamin C, and spicy foods for at least 2 weeks. If you reintroduce these items into your diet one at a time, you can see what’s causing the problem, whether it’s food or drink related.
- Manage your stress.