How to Relieve an Itchy Anus?
How to Relieve an Itchy Anus?
Experiencing gastrointestinal problems can not only bring incredible discomfort, but there are some that can cause embarrassment, too. While some digestive issues can cause embarrassing noises, smells, and rushes to the bathroom, there is nothing quite like being stuck with the urge to deal with an itchy anus.
The technical, medical terminology for anal itching is pruritus ani, and it is a fairly common symptom that can be associated with various digestive conditions. In many cases, an itchy anus is not dangerous and can often be treated at home. Only rarely are itchy butt symptoms a sign of a medical condition that will need to be treated by a doctor. At Northeastern Gastroenterology Associates, we can help patients get to the bottom of the digestive issues that they are experiencing. Our Honesdale gastroenterology specialists understand that anal itching is both uncomfortable and embarrassing, so we’re here to give you some tips that will provide itchy bum relief.
How to Relieve an Itchy Anus?
There are many causes of an itchy anus. Itching around the perianal area can be triggered by dietary choices, skin conditions like eczema, infection, friction from wiping, and many other irritants. Besides the primary symptom of anal itching, there are additional discomforts that may be experienced. An itchy anus may be accompanied by symptoms such as sore, inflamed skin around the anal area. Sometimes people will experience a burning sensation in addition to their itching. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, try these anal itching remedies to find relief:
1. Keep It Clean
Depending on the exact cause of the anal itching, you can care for an itchy anus clean and free of excess moisture and other potential irritants. Cleaning the perianal area with warm water and a clean washcloth when you shower or bathe is a good start. When doing so, make sure you clean the area gently. Any scrubbing or rubbing may cause the skin in the area to further irritant and intensify the itching. Additionally, make sure to keep the area around the anus dry.
2. Wear Loose Underwear
When dealing with anal itching you should avoid wearing tight or constricting underwear. Wearing loose and breathable clothing can help prevent causing further irritation. Additionally, wearing cotton underwear can help ensure that excess moisture does not build upon irritated skin, which again, tends to amplify the itching.
3. Try Over-the-Counter Medications
You can find over-the-counter products that help provide relief for the itching and burning symptoms that are associated with hemorrhoids and other conditions. Topical creams are typically the most common type of product used to relieve these symptoms. The creams are applied to affected areas and contain a variety of active ingredients, including hydrocortisone, zinc-oxide, or capsaicin cream.
4. Eat High-Fiber Foods
Soft stools and frequent bowel movements don’t mix well with an itchy butt. A healthy, high-fiber diet can help prevent diarrhea or constipation and ensure regular bowel movements and help alleviate some of the discomfort associated with anal itching. It is also wise to avoid any foods that might promote diarrhea, such as spicy or acidic foods and caffeinated beverages.
When to Seek Medical Help?
As noted earlier, anal itching or an itchy butt is a common ailment that generally isn’t a cause for alarm. Most people who experience these symptoms can clear things up within a day or so at home. However, if home remedies are not offering the relief you need, and even over-the-counter medications don’t seem to be helping reduce the swelling, inflammation, and itching are proving to be ineffective, then it's certainly worth seeking medical attention.
Anal itching that lasts longer than a week or two could be a sign of an underlying condition. If you’re experiencing prolonged anal itching and other discomforting symptoms around the perianal area, make an appointment with a gastrointestinal specialist to identify the cause.
Make an Appointment at Northeastern Gastroenterology Associates if You Are Experiencing Prolonged Anal Itch
At Northeastern Gastroenterology Associates, we are here to help you understand the difference between a condition that is discomforting or potentially embarrassing and one that could be putting your health on the line. Our gastroenterology specialists focus on, and experience in, dealing with a wide range of gastrointestinal diseases and conditions, meaning we can quickly identify the cause of your discomforting anal itching and help you get on the road to healing.
If you have questions or would like to schedule an appointment, contact us today!