Anal Itching

Overview

Anal itching could be the symptom of many different health conditions. Many people dread this symptom, not because it is uncomfortable or severe, but because it is very embarrassing. The itching is generally felt around the anus, specifically on the outer-skin of the rectum. With the symptom of anal itching terrible by itself, many factors worsen this discomfort. Some of these factors that add to the worries of the already suffering invalid include prolonged sitting, moisture around the area, and irritation caused due to the clothing. Although this health condition is definitely not uncommon, many who suffer from it are mortified to discuss the details with their doctors. So, they find themselves prolonging the symptoms, thus holding back the treatment.

A few major symptoms can be associated with anal itching, the most common being the soreness or burning sensation around the anus that can lead to itching or irritation in the area. The itching and irritation are the temporary indications of anal itching that instigate a strong urge to scratch the affected area. However,scratching is not exactly the proper way to deal with it because it can, in turn, aggravate the symptoms. In most cases, anal itching can be treated easily.

Dry skin is a common cause for anal itching, since the skin around the anus can get drier as a person ages. On the other hand, excessive moisture can also cause anal itching, with profuse sweating aggravating the irritation. Other causes that instigate irritation include excessive wiping and usage of harsh soaps, laundry soaps, and other products that include corrosive chemicals in them. These practices irritate the skin in the anal region, which gradually lead to itching. People with sensitive skin should be extremely careful while using scented bathroom products; they can be more susceptible to anal itching or other irritations.

Anal itching can also be a symptom of hemorrhoids. This condition is caused when the veins in the lowest rectal and anal regions are filled with an excess of blood. This can occur especially during strenuous bowel movements. Anal itching and the resultant irritation can also be an indication of yeast infections, anal tumors, or skin disorders such as psoriasis and eczema. In addition, this symptom can also be caused due to pinworms and frequent liquid stools. Anal itching can be diagnosed by anoscopy, colonoscopy, parch test, skin biopsy, and lab tests.

Treatment

In most cases of anal itching, irritation can be cured with the help of over-the-counter medications, changes in diet, or the usage of appropriate medicinal products. Similar to any medical condition, do consult a doctor if the problem persists.

Products that contain hydrocortisone may assist in relieving inflammation and itching, while ointments containing zinc oxide can also help reduce the agony of anal itching. To avoid further symptoms of this condition, cleanse and dry the anal area thoroughly in future. Wear loose fitting undergarments, which can help keep the area dry and also avoid any allergic product that may have caused irritation in the past. Always be sure to check with your doctor before applying any medicine in the anal area; unauthentic products may not only aggravate the symptoms but can also hold you back from discovering the true problem.