Intense chronic itching of the
anus and
skin around the anus. Pruritis ani can affect
men or
women at any age although it is common in
overweight people and those who are
diabetic,
sweaty and
stressed out.
Symptoms:
Itching, often intense and worse at night.
Redness of
skin around the anus.
Abrasion of the skin due to
scratching.
Causes:
Yeast infection.
Pinworms,
scabies,
lice.
Contact dermatitis caused by
soaps,
contraceptive foams or jellies,
perfumed toilet paper,
deodorant sprays,
douches or
underwear made of synthetic fabric.
Various skin disorders, including
psoriasis or
seborrheic dermatitis.
Vaginal discharge or skin
atrophy in women caused by low
estrogen levels.
Chronic
diarrhea.
Excessive
coffee intake.
Prevention:
Keep the body
clean with regular
showers or
baths.
Cleanse carefully after
bowel movements with
moistened
tissue.
Avoid contact with
substances to which you are
sensitive.
Avoid
tight underclothing made from synthetic
material.
Treatment:
Wear soft
mittens at night, if
scratching occurs while
asleep.
If you are unable to completely empty
rectum with bowel movement, use a
small plain water
enema (infant bulb syringe) after each bowel movement. This may prevent
irritation.
Keep the rectal area clean, dry and cool. Wear
loose clothing and underclothing.
You may use
non-prescription cortisone ointment or
cream. Apply 3 times a day and
rub in
gently until it disappears. Avoid
laxatives.
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