What is pruritus ani?
Pruritus ani is an irritation of the skin surrounding the anus. It can result in severe itching and/or burning peri-anal pain. It is a common condition.
What causes this to happen?
Ironically, the two most likely causes are either over-cleaning, or not cleaning enough.
- Over-cleaning can remove natural oils that protect the skin.
- Increased moisture due to difficulty cleaning or increased mucous irritates the skin. This can cause itching, bleeding, and pain. An over-growth of 'yeast' makes it worse.
- Rarer causes can include: psoriasis, allergy to laundry detergents, eczema, dermatitis, or tumors of the skin.
- Foods that can sometimes affect itching: Caffeine, beer, chocolate, nuts and popcorn.
Why am I having this problem?
Based upon your history and exam, there can be various reason for your problem as shown below:
- Difficulty with cleansing: (too moist)
- consistency of stool
- hemorrhoids or anal tags
- peri-anal hairs
- overweight
- yeast overgrowth
- Over-cleansing: (too dry)
- Consult your physician for other reasons affecting your condition
When will the itching stop?
Most people will experience marked relief from symptoms within days.
IMPORTANT TIP: The ideal bowel movement comes the moment you sit, without pain, straining or bleeding. It's completed within seconds, and is easy to clean.
MEDITOONS™ ARE DESIGNED TO BE USED IN CONSULTATION WITH YOUR PHYSICIAN. THEY ARE NOT DESIGNED TO ENCOURAGE SELF-DIAGNOSIS OR TREATMENT. PLEASE CHECK WITH A PHYSICIAN PROMPTLY IF YOU SUSPECT YOU ARE ILL.