Having an itchy bottom can be inconvenient, not to mention embarrassing. Not only is it difficult to fully assess the damage and determine the reason behind the itchiness, but treatment can also be confusing.
In order to come up with the right treatment, you need to determine what is causing your bottom to itch.
A Skin Infection Can Be the Reason Behind Your Itchy Behind
The medical term for an itchy bottom is called “pruritus ani,” and is a fairly common condition. In most cases, a person with an anal itch does not have a disease of the anus or rectum, but they do have a skin condition. The itchiness can come from a candida, eczema, or psoriasis infection.
Skin irritants such as perfumes and chemicals used on toilet paper and wipes can be the culprit, while food such as chocolate, nuts, beer, and dairy have been known to irritate the anus when they are expelled from the body during a bowel movement.
Other possible causes of the itchiness are hemorrhoids, skin tags, and anal fissures, which can all be fixed by a Los Angeles colorectal surgeon, also known as a proctologist.
Hemorrhoids is caused by the buildup of pressure near the anus, causing the blood vessels to become inflamed and the anus to be itchy. Skin tags are fleshy pieces of skin around the anus, and are commonly confused with hemorrhoids. Fissures are tears on the colon lining that are painful and itchy as well.
Getting Rid of the Itch
When washing the anus, it is best to stick to water and a non-scented, mild soap. Wear loose, cotton underwear and avoid wearing tight-fitting pants. As much as possible, do not scratch the itch because it will only make you want to scratch all the more.
If the itch remains persistent, it is best to consult with a Los Angeles colorectal surgeon. The anal doctor will be able to treat not just the symptom, but get down to the root cause of your anal problem.
