Perianal Itching – University of Michigan
I itch around my anus. It drives me crazy. Can you help?
Perianal itching can be very uncomfortable and can interfere with daily activities and sleep. Keep the anal area clean and dry, and avoid injury to the skin from excessive wiping or abrasion.
Eliminate items in the diet such as citrus fruits and juices, coffee and tea (including decaf in excess of 2 cups a day), beer and alcoholic beverages, colas, nuts and popcorn, milk, chocolate, and spices (especially peppers) that produce gas, indigestion, or loose bowel.
Foods that produce mucus or aggravate drainage will result in irritation of the bowel and possible anal itching. If your itch (and scratching) is severe, wear cotton gloves during the night and consider taking antihistamine pills. Avoid the use of perfumed soap and vigorous rubbing with a washcloth.
Most soap is highly alkaline, and the residues may collect in the folds of the skin and alter the normal acidity of the skin. Use Cetaphil or other mild cleansers for the shower to avoid irritation.
After bowel movements, wash the anal area with water or a wet cotton or tissue. Hypoallergenic unscented baby wipes can be used for cleaning. Use no scented toilet paper to pat dry, and avoid rubbing with the toilet tissue.
Wear a thin cotton strip directly on the anus during the day. Use one that is so thin that you are not conscious of its presence. Change the cotton strip frequently, and wear cotton underwear. Each morning and/or night, take a bath in lukewarm water.
Apply a mild prescribed or over-the-counter lotion, cream, or ointment after your cleaning and drying routine.
See a dermatologist if the itching continues, and consult a proctologist to rule out rectal disease.
