Anal Itching

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

Causes

Signs/Symptoms

Care

WHAT YOU SHOULD DO

• Don't rub or scratch the area. This makes the itching worse.
• After every bowel movement and at bedtime, gently clean the anal area. Use a moistened tissue, cotton ball, or soft wash cloth. You also may use premoistened anal cleansing pads or tissues made for cleaning up babies. Don't use soap. Gently pat the area dry.
• Put a thin strip of cotton directly on the anus. This helps absorb moisture and stool. The cotton should be thin enough so that you can't feel it. Don't use a cotton ball or sanitary pad. You may dust the cotton with corn starch or baby powder. Change the cotton several times a day.
• Wear underwear made of cotton or with a cotton crotch. Don't wear tight-fitting clothes and underwear.
• Some foods and beverages may make the problem worse. Examples are beer, tea, coffee, milk, cola, tomatoes, citrus fruits, nuts, chocolate, and spicy foods. Avoid any that seem to increase the itching.
• Don't use products that may irritate the anal skin. These include perfumed or colored toilet paper, deodorant sprays, and perfumed soaps.
• Don't use any medicine, cream, or lotion on the anal area without checking with your doctor. Many products used to treat the itching can sometimes make it worse.

Call Your Doctor If...

• The itching is not better in a few days or if it gets worse.
• You have a high temperature.
• The skin around the anus becomes red, swollen, or tender. This may be a sign of infection.
• Other members of your family also start itching.