Pruritus ani is a common condition that causes irritating and uncomfortable itching around the anus (opening of the rectum), followed by an urge to scratch. Affecting about five percent of the population, pruritus ani is more commonly diagnosed in patients between 40 and 60 years old, and can result from skin conditions, infections, disease, and hygiene habits. Patients generally experience bothersome symptoms after a bowel movement or during the night. At Colon & Rectal Surgical Specialists of New York in Garden City, NY, our specialists understand anal itching can be difficult to deal with, which is why we offer a variety of conservative treatments to help eliminate undesirable side symptoms.
Anal itching can be caused by a variety of factors, including aggressive wiping, certain types of food, and hemorrhoids.
As the name states, the most common side effect is an itchy bottom or burning sensation around the anus. The severity of the sensation may increase and result in inflammation when the anus is scratched or exposed to moisture for long periods of time. Once irritated, you may experience unbearable discomfort and soreness during and after a bowel movement, followed by bleeding.
Patients generally experience bothersome symptoms after a bowel movement or during the night.
Aggressive wiping and excessive hygiene habits can worsen symptoms and start a vicious cycle. Once the anus is scratched and the surrounding tissue is irritated, itching will progress into a burning sensation. To help heal the area, your skin will naturally begin to release histamines. As the histamines are released and the skin begins to heal, the burning sensation will subside but rebound itching can occur until the skin is completely healed.
There are a number of possible causes for anal itching, including:
During your visit, we can review your medical history to determine contributing factors.
Because anal itching is a symptom, your colorectal specialist can perform a rectal examination to identify if you have hemorrhoids, fissures, eczema, or another abnormality causing your discomfort. We may also recommend additional testing if we suspect you may have a more serious condition, such as a tumor or pinworm.
The type of treatment we recommend will depend on the root of your issue. In cases where the cause of your condition is easily identifiable, your specialist can recommend a medication to treat the issue, such as:
In addition to taking medication, your specialist can recommend careful at-home treatment and dietary changes to accelerate your recovery. Instructions may include:
Depending upon your unique needs, we can design a customized treatment plan to manage symptoms and treat your condition.
If you are struggling with persistent anal itching, our doctors can provide the necessary treatment to eliminate your uncomfortable symptoms. Contact our office online or call (516) 844-0248 to schedule your consultation with one of our colorectal specialists.
The Colon & Rectal Surgical Specialists of New York provide comfortable, discreet, and private care from five locations throughout Long Island and Queens. Every member of our team is a respected leader in their field, and each is certified by both the American Board of Surgery and the American Board of Colon and Rectal Surgery. We provide a complete set of services related to your colorectal health, including:
To request a consultation with our physicians, please fill out our online form or call 516-248-2422.
