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Natural treatment to relieve pruritus ani and stop anal itching and rectal burning.

Anal Itch

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What is Anal Itch?
Diagnosing Anal Itch
What Causes Anal itch?
Help for Anal Itch
More Information on Anal Itch

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What is Anal Itch?

Anal itch can be defined as an intense itching around the anal tissue. The itch can be so insistent that resisting the urge to scratch may be difficult or impossible. This can understandingly become an extremely uncomfortable situation and many times people suffering from anal itch feel embarrassed to talk about it with their doctors.

Anal itch is also known as pruritus ani. Treatment for anal itching is normally prescribed after establishing the underlying cause of symptoms.

Symptoms of Anal Itch

The symptoms and signs of anal itch include:

Recurring itch around the anal area
Burning
Soreness
Irritation

Diagnosing Anal Itch

A doctor will ask a number of questions about overall health and symptoms to determine the underlying cause of anal itch. Since rectal itching can be caused by a number of reasons, both internal and external, specific tests may be performed to pinpoint the cause and adequate treatment plan for pruritus ani.

Although anal itch is an embarrassing condition, the more information about the condition a doctor can receive from a patient, the easier it will be to find proper treatment and symptomatic relief.

What Causes Anal Itch?

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Dry skin. Dry skin is a common cause for itchiness, especially in areas where the skin is most delicate.
Excessive moisture. Moisture from sweating can be irritating. Anal itching can also be caused by fecal incontinence and frequent diarrhea.
Excessive washing. Wiping and excessive scrubbing can cause anal itching.
Chemical irritants. Soaps, colognes, douches and birth control products contain chemicals that can irritate skin in and around your anus. Scented or colored toilet paper can be irritating to people with sensitive skin.
Food irritants. Anal itching may be the result of irritating chemicals present in certain foods and condiments, such as chili peppers or hot sauce.
Medications. Anal itch may occur as a side effect of certain medications such as antibiotics
Overuse of laxatives. Improper use of laxatives can lead to chronic diarrhea, anal irritation and itching.
Hemorrhoids. Anal itching can be a symptom of hemorrhoids. However, most hemorrhoids don't itch.
Anal fissures. These tiny tears that occur in the anus for a number of reason may cause itchiness.
Infections. Sexually transmitted diseases can cause anal itching. Parasites can also cause persistent itching around the anus.
Thrush. Fungal infections in the genital area can cause anal itch.
Skin disorders. Skin conditions including psoriasis, seborrhea and eczema can irritate the area in and around your anus, causing anal itch.
Other causes. Anal itching may also be caused by anxiety or stress.

Help for Anal Itch

There are various treatment options, depending on the cause, to relieve the symptoms of anal itch. Although the urge to scratch may be extremely strong, scratching will only aggravate the problem.

If scratching during sleep is suspected, wearing cotton gloves at night until the symptoms subside is highly recommended. There are also a number of steps to find relief from anal itch and prevent possible future occurrences.

Natural ways of preventing and relieving anal itch:

A lot can be done to naturally maintain and promote anal skin health. It is a good idea to support overall systemic balance by eating lots of fresh fruit and vegetables and whole grain foods, ensuring plenty of fresh air, adequate sleep, moderate sunshine and regular exercise. Also avoid tight clothing and synthetic underwear.

Add some oatmeal to your bath water. Oatmeal has naturally soothing qualities that help soften and heal irritated and itchy skin.
Promote tissue healing with Aloe Vera. Aloe Vera mixed with olive oil or tea tree oil can be applied to the area to promote healing.
Keep the anal area clean. Moistened toilet paper or wipes are gentle on the skin and make it easier to thoroughly cleanse the anal region.
Keep the anal area dry. Unscented baby powder or cornstarch can be applied to the area to keep moisture at bay and prevent chafing and irritation.
Eat plenty of fiber. A common cause of anal itch is constipation. Increasing your fiber intake will promote healthy digestion and stools and possibly relieve symptoms and prevent future occurrences. Fruits, vegetables and whole grains are great sources of dietary fiber.
Wash undergarments with a mild soap. Laundry detergents can be extremely irritating due to the chemicals present in some of them. The same goes for fabric softeners. Wash underwear with a mild unscented soap to prevent future irritation and itch.
If thrush or candida is suspected, there are herbal remedies which can help to maintain candida levels in your body within the normal range.
Herbal remedies may also be recommended to help with anal itching. Some examples include Fagopyrum, Croton and Aesculus. Combination remedies are often most likely to be helpful. Make sure that you source your herbal remedies from a reputable company to ensure maximum safety, effectiveness and therapeutic dosage.

More Information on Anal Itch

Anal itch can be a symptom of a number of serious medical conditions. If anal itch is accompanied by weight-loss, bloody stools, or painful bowel movements; it is important that to consult a health-care provider immediately.