Health: Anal Itching, causes and effects.

Anal itching is a common condition. The itch, situated in your anus or on the skin just around your anus, is often intense and may be accompanied by a strong urge to scratch. You may find anal itching to be embarrassing and uncomfortable.

Also called pruritus ani (proo-RIE-tus A-nie), anal itching has many causes, such as skin problems, excessive washing or hemorrhoids.

If anal itching is persistent, talk with your doctor. With proper treatment and self-care measures, most people get complete relief from anal itching.

SYMPTOMS

Anal itching may also be associated with burning and soreness. The itching and irritation may be temporary or more persistent, depending on the cause.

CAUSES

Possible causes of anal itching include:

- Skin irritation. Friction and moisture can irritate the sensitive skin in the anal area. This irritation sometimes causes anal itching. Scents, dyes and softening agents in products such as soap and toilet paper may also trigger irritation and anal itching. Overuse of these products often aggravates the problem.

- Digestive problems. Repeated bouts of diarrhea can cause anal irritation and itching. Accidental leakage of feces (fecal soiling or incontinence) is often a contributing factor.

- Hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids are engorged veins located just under the membrane that lines the lowest part of your rectum and anus. They often occur as a result of straining during a bowel movement. Anal itching can be a symptom of hemorrhoids.

- Infections. Sexually transmitted infections may also involve the anus and can cause anal itching. In children, the parasite that causes pinworms can cause persistent anal itching. Adults in the same household can also be infected. Other parasites may cause similar itching. Yeast infections, which usually affect women, can also cause itching in the anal area.

- Skin disease. Sometimes, anal itching is the result of a specific skin disease, such as psoriasis or contact dermatitis.

- Anal tumors. Rarely, benign or cancerous tumors in or around the anus may be a cause of anal itching.

Medications

Medications that might help include:

- Over-the-counter cream or ointment containing hydrocortisone (Cortaid, Preparation H Anti-Itch Cream). Apply sparingly to the affected area to reduce inflammation and itching.

- A protective ointment that contains zinc oxide (Desitin, Balmex). Applied to the affected area, this also may help.

- Antihistimine. If your symptoms are worse at night, your doctor may prescribe an antihistamine to reduce itching until topical treatments take effect.

- Anti-parasite treatment. Several medications are available for treating pinworm infections. A single dose may cure the infection, but often a second dose is given one to two weeks later.

With proper treatment, most people experience relief from anal itching in less than a week. Anal itching that continues for more than one to two months needs to be evaluated by your doctor.

LIFESTYLE AND HOME REMEDIES

Prevention of anal itching mainly involves washing properly and avoiding irritants. If you already have anal itching, try these self-care measures:

- Cleanse gently. Wash the area immediately after bowel movements. Don't scrub and avoid using soap. Instead, use a wet washcloth, wet unscented toilet paper or a small squeeze bottle of water to cleanse the area.

- Dry thoroughly. After cleansing, pat the area dry with toilet paper or a towel or use a hair dryer. Cornstarch powder can help keep the area dry.

- Don't scratch. Scratching further irritates your skin and leads to persistent inflammation. If you can't tolerate the itching, apply a cold compress to the area or take a lukewarm bath to find some immediate relief.

- Wear cotton underwear and loose clothing. This helps keep the area dry. Avoid wearing pantyhose and other tightfitting garments because these can trap moisture.

- Avoid irritants. Avoid bubble baths and genital deodorants. Cut back or avoid beverages, such as coffee or cola, and foods that you know might cause diarrhea. Avoid overuse of laxatives.

- Maintain regular, firm bowel movements.If soft stools or frequent bowel movements are a problem, gradually adding fiber to your diet may help. Fiber supplements, such a Metamucil or Citrucel, also may help.

#good personal hygiene is the best!