What is Anal Pruritus
Anal pruritus is when the area around the opening of the butt (anus) feels itchy. This itchy feeling often happens when the area is moist. Moisture may come from sweat or from a small amount of poop (stool) that is left on the area. Scratching can cause more skin damage.
Follow these instructions at home:
Pay attention to any changes in your condition. Take these actions to help with your itching:
Skin Care
- Keep
clean by washing your body well.
- Clean the affected area with wet toilet paper, baby wipes, or a wet washcloth. Do this after you poop and at bedtime.
- Avoid using soaps on this area.
- Dry the area well. Pat the area dry.
- Do not scrub the area with anything, even toilet paper.
- Do not scratch the itchy area. Scratching makes the itching worse.
- Take a warm water bath (sitz bath) as told by your doctor. Pat the area dry with a soft cloth.
- Use creams or ointments as told by your doctor.
- Do not use bubble bath, scented toilet paper, or genital deodorants.
General instructions
- Take over-the-counter and prescription medicines only as told by your doctor.
- Talk with your doctor about fiber pills (supplements).
- Wear cotton underwear and loose clothing.
- Keep all follow-up visits as told by your doctor. This is important.
Contact a doctor if:
- Your itching does not get better after many days.
- Your itching gets worse.
- You have a fever.
- You have redness, swelling, or pain in the itchy area.
- You have fluid, blood, or pus coming from the itchy area.
