Insane Itching
There's almost nothing worse than getting hit with the sudden urge to scratch "back there." (Especially out in public!) Even in private, a severe anal itch is difficult to scratch. In fact, vigorous scratching can damage anal tissues causing a vicious itch-scratch-itch cycle.
Most of us will experience anal itching during our lives. Pregnancy, diabetes, yeast infections, sexually transmitted disease, and intestinal parasites are some common reasons for anal itching.
During an episode of anal itching, appropriate self-care is very important to reduce injury and the spread of bacteria from the anus to fingers and beyond.
Many times the simple cause of anal itching is debris lodged in anal folds, or around an external hemorrhoid. Cleansing with a flow of water and castile soap is the best method of relieving this condition. This should be the first anal itching home remedy performed, as it is gentle and healing.
A recurring itch may be more difficult to identify. It may be accompanied by anal discharge. Several main reasons for anal itching are:
- digestive acids (bile) - secreted by the digestive system, can continually irritate lining in persons with chronic diarrhea or who have had gallbladder removed
- hemorrhoid undergoing thrombosis or swelling - stretching of tissue can cause intense itching
- healing of anal fissure - anal fissure itching is another undiagnosed cause
- poor circulation - pre-thrombosis, as blood flow begins to stagnate and pool in anal veins
- anal yeast infection - possible in diabetics, persons with HIV/AIDS, or sexually transmitted diseases, can cause anal itching and redness. If the vagina and anus are both itching, a yeast infection should be ruled out
- parasites - anal itching in children (especially at night) should always be investigated first for parasites such as pinworms. These may be readily identified with the naked eye, or by applying a strip of clear tape on the anus and checking in the morning for eggs, larvae, etc.
- anal abscess - may cause anal itching and pain
- anal fistula - mucus or pus draining causes itch
- hemorrhoids - mucus drainage can cause constant itching
All of the above reasons should be treated by a health care practitioner to eliminate the cause.
Anal itching that has no specific cause is referred to as pruritis ani. It often can be treated with over-the-counter medications, typically ointments that are applied to the affected area. These medications may contain hydrocortisone (anti-inflammatory), phenylephrine (shrinks swelling), and witch hazel (also shrinks swelling).
Apply hot compress before applying ointment, to clean and relax the area and improve blood flow.
Self-care measures you can do to improve rectal health are:
- eat adequate amounts of dietary fiber (20-40g per day, but start with small amounts so your digestive system gradually adjusts)
- drink adequate fluids
- exercise - even walking 30 minutes a day increases circulation in lower extremities including pelvis. It is best to avoid sit-ups, squats, or any other weight-bearing exercises until hemorrhoids have cleared up
- avoid straining either in bowel movements or in abdominal exercises
- try an herbal preparation to increase vein tone and capacity throughout the body
People who have had hemorrhoid surgery will likely experience increased anal itch as they heal. Ask your doctor for appropriate prescription strength ointment to relieve itching.
If you suspect there are parasites in your intestine, try a natural herbal cleanse containing tannins (found in many fruits such as pomegranate), or extract of black walnut (used for centuries as a de-worming agent). These products are found in most health food stores or online. You could even drink pomegranate juice as a start. Also eliminate wheat and sugar from your diet during cleansing, as parasites feed on these.
Itch Relief Products
