Schedule an AppointmentAnal Itching (Pruritis Ani)
Pruritis Ani also known as anal itching is the irritation of the skin at the exit of the rectum, known as the anus, accompanied by the desire to scratch. Although itching may be a reaction to chemicals in the stool, it often implies that there is inflammation of the anal area.
Anal Itching Pruritis Ani
Pruritis Ani also known as anal itching is the irritation of the skin at the exit of the rectum, known as the anus, accompanied by the desire to scratch. Although itching may be a reaction to chemicals in the stool, it often implies that there is inflammation of the anal area.
The intensity of anal itching and the amount of inflammation increases from the direct trauma of scratching and the presence of moisture. At its most intense, pruritis ani causes unbearable discomfort that often is described as burning and soreness.
Causes of Pruritis Ani
Pruritis ani can be caused by irritating chemicals in foods we eat, such as spices, hot sauces, and peppers. Anal itching can also be caused by the irritation of continuous moisture in the anus caused by frequent liquid stools, diarrhea, or small amounts of stool (incontinence). Moisture increases the possibility of infections of the anus, especially yeast, particularly in patients with diabetes or HIV. Psoriasis also can irritate the anus. Abnormal passageways (fistulas) from the small intestine or colon to the skin surrounding the anus can form as a result of disease (such as Crohn’s Disease), and these fistulas bring irritating fluids to the anal area.
Other problems that can cause anal itching include:
- Pinworms
- Hemorrhoids
- Tears of the anal skin (fissures)
- Skin tags
Treatment for Pruritis Ani
Initial treatment of simple itching is directed toward relieving the burning and soreness. It is important to clean and dry the anus thoroughly and avoid leaving soap in the anal area. Cleaning efforts should include:
- Gentle showering without direct rubbing or irritating the skin with either the washcloth or towel.
- After bowel movements, moist pads (such as baby wipes, flushable moist wipes, and flushable anal cleansing wipes should be used for cleaning the anus instead of toilet paper.
- If there is constant moisture present in the anus or stool from incontinence, it may be necessary to clean the anus with moist pads between bowel movements.
Many over-the-counter (OTC) products are sold for the treatment of anal itching and are available as ointments, creams, gels, suppositories, foams, and pads. These products often contain the same drugs used to treat hemorrhoids.
When used around the anus, ointments, creams, and gels should be applied as a thin covering. When applied to the anal canal, these products should be inserted with a finger using finger cots (latex covers for the fingertips) or a “pile pipe.” Pile pipes are most efficient when they have holes on the sides as well as at the end. Pile pipes should be lubricated with ointment prior to insertion. Suppositories or foams do not have advantages over ointments, creams, and gels.
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