Pruritis Ani (Anal Itch)

About Anal Itch

Anal itch is common, and intractable itch can be very distressing.

It can occasionally be a marker of a serious condition but in most cases is due to establishment of an “itch/scratch” cycle.

Diagnosis of Anal Itch

Many of the serious “not to be missed” causes can be ruled out with an examination of the area and simple tests.

If the cause of your itching isn't obvious or it doesn't respond to initial treatment, your doctor may consider a Colonoscopy to rule out any serious conditions.

Causes of Anal Itch

Common factors causing Anal Itch include::

• Poor skin condition due to sweating, faecal leakage, obesity
• Dermatitis (skin inflammation) in the anal area due to soaps/creams/perfumed toilet paper
• Infections like thrush, pinworms or sexually transmitted disease

Treatments for Anal Itch

Treatment of anal itching depends on the cause of the problem.

Pruritis Ani Treatment may include taking self-care measures.

The condition of the anal canal and peri-anal skin can be improved with

• Normalisation of stools to allow comfortable passage by improving water and fibre consumption, and possibly laxatives if needed
• Non-prescription anti-itch cream such as zinc-based barrier creams can be helpful
• Use of steroid creams.
• Treating an infection or hemorrhoids
• Cleaning after toileting needs to be gentle and with avoidance of scrubbing or perfumed products. Also using minimal cleaning with a moistened cloth or cotton wool, bidet or shower is preferred and the anal area should be gently patted dry or dried using a hairdryer on a cool setting.
• Soaps on the perianal region should be avoided. Non-soap cleansers for sensitive skin such as Aveeno or Dermeeze are preferable.
• Loose-fitting and cotton clothing is best to allow air circulation and improve skin condition.

Avoidance of scratching is very important to reduce further traumatizing the peri-anal area and then compounding the itch.

Other Therapies for Anal Itch

• Sedating antihistamines before bed can be helpful.
• Fingernails need to be kept short.