Why the anus itches: the main causes of anal itching
The year consists of a hole that is located at the lower end of the digestive system. That is, it is the part of our body that, as you surely know, we find located just at the lower end of the digestive tract, just after the medically known as the anal canal. And we found it located, to be even more precise, in the perineal area, next to the genitals.
Its main function is to control the expulsion of feces, which consist of unwanted semisolid matter produced by our digestive system during the process of digestion, after all the nutrients we have obtained through feeding have been extracted.
Although in reality they are not as well known as other pathologies or disorders, there are a number of conditions that can directly affect the anus. One of those conditions, or rather the most common symptom, is the one known as anal pain. That is, the pain that is felt in the area of the anus and can be felt as tightness or small pulls that tend to be felt as lashes.
But in addition to pain, did you know that it is also possible to feel a Annoying and uncomfortable itching in the anus? Medically it is known as anal pruritus, and it is a dermatological condition that is characterized by the itch located in the anal area.
What is anal itching? What does it consist of?
As its name indicates, anal itching is that sensation of itching, stinging or itching that we feel - and is located - in the area of the anus. It is usual that this itch tends to get worse after having gone to the bathroom (specifically after a bowel movement) or during the night, while we sleep. And it tends to affect men more, and may extend to the scrotum or to the vulva (in the case of women).
However, unlike what is mistakenly thought and although at first you can feel some relief, the truth is that it's not a good idea to scratch the area, since in reality you could cause more irritation and make the itch worse, instead of relieving it.
The reason why scratching to relieve the itching can be worse than trying to put up with the desire is clear and evident: When we scratch our nails we tend to cause more damage to the skin, can in turn produce infection. In this way, if we scratch the itch persists, causing in turn a much more extreme discomfort.
Although it becomes a very uncomfortable feeling the truth is that the anal itch does not usually cause pain, being rather an annoying sensation of the skin.
Causes of anal itching
There are several causes that can influence the appearance of anal itching (or anal itching). And unlike what you tend to think, little or bad hygiene is not a cause of anal itching. On the contrary, excessive hygiene with the excessive use of soaps and other topical products are a direct cause. Among those outstanding causes:
- An excess of hygiene:excessive use of soaps and other topical products, in addition to rubbing vigorously with a washcloth.
- Toilet paper:Use a toilet paper with rough texture.
- Feeding:what we eat or drink also influences the appearance of itching of the anus. For example, drinks with caffeine or acidic or spicy foods influence a lot.
- Conditions and pathologies of the colon, anus and rectum:such as internal and external hemorrhoids, anal fissures, rectal prolapse or fistulas.
- Bowel diseases:Inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's disease) is a direct cause of the appearance of anal itching. Defecation also frequently affects its appearance, as occurs with diarrhea or constipation.
- Use of close underwear: the use of tight or tight underwear can cause excess sweat and moisture to be trapped in the anal area.
- Infections: some fungi (such as yeast), some types of bacteria and certain parasites influence the appearance of itching.
- Systemic diseases: such as thyroid disease, liver diseases, diabetes mellitus, leukemia or lymphoma.
- Dermatological conditions: such as contact dermatitis, atopic dermatitis and psoriasis.
How is it diagnosed and how is it treated?
In the consultation the doctor will perform a physical examination in order to identify the possible underlying causes that may be influencing the appearance of anal itching. It is normal to inspect the area visually, and it is common to ask about the type and frequency of bowel movements. It is also possible that you get skin samples.
Once the cause is identified, medical treatment will obviously depend on the underlying or secondary cause.Thus, for example, it is possible to prescribe topical medications to relieve itching and irritation, or if there is an antibiotic or antifungal infection.
In case the condition does not respond to topical medications, injection under the skin in the perianal area of a blue methylene dye is common, which relieves pain and itching by killing the nerve endings where it has been injected. This article is published for informational purposes only. It can not and should not replace the consultation with a Physician. We advise you to consult your Trusted Doctor.
