What is Pruritus Ani (proo-rí-tus
a-ní)?
Itching around the anal area is called pruritus ani. This
condition results in a compelling urge to scratch.
What causes this to
happen?
Several factors may be at fault. A common cause is excessive
moisture in the anal area. Moisture may be due to perspiration or
a small amount of residual stool around the anal area. Pruritis
ani may be a symptom of other common anal conditions such as
hemorrhoids and anal fissures. The initial condition can be made
worse by scratching, vigorous cleansing of the area or overuse of
topical treatments.
In some individuals pruritus ani may be caused by eating certain
foods, smoking and drinking alcoholic beverages, especially beer
and wine. Food items that have been associated with pruritus ani
include:
Coffee, Tea
Carbonated beverages
Milk products
Tomatoes and tomato products such as Ketchup
Cheese
Chocolate
Nuts
Does
Pruritus Ani result from lack of cleanliness?
Cleanliness is almost never a factor. However, the natural
tendency once a person develops this itching is to wash the area
vigorously and frequently with soap and a washcloth. This almost
always makes the problem worse by damaging the skin and washing
away protective natural oils.
What can be done to make
this itching go away?
A careful examination by a colon and rectal surgeon or other
physician may identify a definite cause for the itching. Your
physician can recommend treatment to eliminate the specific
problem. Treatment of pruritus ani may include these three points.
1. AVOID MOISTURE in the anal area:
Apply either a few wisps of cotton, a 4 x 4
gauze or some cornstarch powder to keep the area dry.
Avoid all medicated, perfumed and deodorant
powders
2. AVOID FURTHER TRAUMA to
the affected area:
Do not use soap of any kind on the anal area.
Do not scrub the anal area with anything –
even toilet paper.
For hygiene, it is best to rinse with warm
water and pat the area dry. Use wet toilet paper, baby wipes or
a wet washcloth to blot the area clean. Never rub.
Try not to scratch the itchy area. Scratching
produces more damage, which in turn makes the itching worse. For
individuals that experience irresistible itching at night,
wearing socks on the hands may be helpful.
3. USE ONLY MEDICATIONS AS
DIRECTED BY YOUR PHYSICIAN. Apply prescription medications
sparingly to the skin around the anal area and avoid rubbing.
Prolonged use of prescribed or over the counter topical
medications may result in irritation or skin dryness that can make
the condition worse.
How long does this
treatment usually take?
Most people experience some relief from itching within a week. If
symptoms do not resolve after 6 weeks, a follow-up appointment
with your colon and rectal surgeon may be needed.
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