Disease, Illness and Condition Library
Anyone who has experienced anal itching knows how frustrating it can be. After all what do you do? Should you go ahead and scratch, and risk the embarrassment of being seen by your boss or co-worker, or nervously search for a sparsely populated area to scratch that anal itch. The problem is unless a effective treatment can be found you will likely be faced with this same uncomfortable scenario day in and day out. In this article we will explore anal itching alone with some tips on when to throw your inhibitions and self esteem to the wind and visit your doctor for answers. Anal itching is itching around the outlet for your rectum. Anal itching falls under the general medical category of pruritus. Bouts of pruritus can be triggered by a long list of possible culprits. As far as anal itching goes numerous factors can cause a nuisance itch to intensify in full blown anal and rectal itching including rubbing of your clothing, the pressure of sitting, and stress. 12 additional possible causes for anal itching *Laxative overuse: Excessive or inappropriate use of laxatives can lead to chronic diarrhea and the risk of anal irritation and itching. *Skin dryness: Add anal itching to the list of challenges that those over 50 face. As we age, the skin that encircles the anus becomes susceptible to dryness. Dry skin can, and often does, lead to persistent, intense anal itching. *Fecal incontinence: When fecal incontinence occurs tiny amounts of fecal matter collect around the anus which in turn causes anal itching. *Skin disorders: Such common skin conditions as eczema, psoriasis, or seborrhea may aggravate the sensitive tissue around the anus. *Moisture: Moisture, or moisture produced by sweating, just fuels the flames of anal itching. *Hemorrhoids: Anal itching can be symptoms of hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids often are a result of straining during a bowel movement. *Yeast infection: Yeast infections are another possible cause of anal itching. *Chemical irritants: Certain laundry soaps, douches, and birth control products contain chemicals that can irritate the skin in and around the anus. Scented or colored toilet paper can be an anal irritant for those with sensitive skin. *Medications: So you thought those antibiotics were helping your anal itch? Well maybe not. Studies show that certain types of medications can cause loose stools or diarrhea which will worsen the condition. *Food irritants: The old saying that “what goes in one end must come out the other” certainly applies to anal itching. Some foods such as hot sauces and spices may contain irritating chemicals which magnify anal itch discomfort. Likewise, some foods may directly or indirectly irritate your anus as they exit the colon. Some of the most delectable delights guilty of this unspeakable atrocity are chocolate, tomatoes, and citrus fruit. Consuming any beverage that can cause diarrhea is another potential food risk factor as well. *Anal tears, fissures, and fistulas: Any small tear in the delicate tissue surrounding the anus can spell I-T-C-H. Larger tears known as fissures are twice as bad. An anal fistula is a small tunnel that forms under the skin on the buttocks outside the anus. All three conditions can, and often do, lead to anal itching along with bleeding and painful bowel movements. *STDs or parasites: STDs or sexually transmitted diseases may also involve the anus and can cause anal itching. In children, the parasites that cause pinworms can cause persistent anal itching. Adults in the same household can also be infected. Other parasites, especially those who exit the rectum at night, are likely to produce anal and rectal itching. When to cry “Uncle” and visit your doctor Sometimes the pain and aggravation of an anal itch will outweigh a person’s modesty. You should also keep in mind that anal or rectal itching may be related to a health or skin condition that requires medical attention. While most of the time anal or rectal itching can be effectively dealt with by making a few lifestyle changes, along with implementing a safe and effective herbal or homeopathic remedy. On the other hand, there are times when getting a professional opinion is the right the thing to do. Three examples would be when bleeding becomes a persistent problem, the anal or rectal itch has stubbornly hung-on for multiple weeks, or you can’t quite figure out what is causing this very personal problem. Natural Herbal Remedies Helpful for Anal/Rectal Itching
Anal Itch Assist - Homeopathic remedy relieves anal itching, burning and discomfort - Continue |
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