General Surgery Specialist Prof. Dr. İlknur Erenler Bayraktar told you in all details about pruritis ani, which is called rectal itching among the people.
WHAT IS THE CAUSE OF THE ITCH?
There are many possible causes of anal itching, including:
- Fecal remnants contaminating the skin around the anus (in case of diarrhea or soft stools)
- hemorrhoidal disease
- Certain foods or drinks that can irritate the anus: Coffee, tea, beer, cola and citrus fruits such as chocolate, tomatoes, oranges or grapefruit
- Diseases that can affect the anus: Anal abscess, fissure and fistulas, cancers (anal canal, colon and rectum)
- Skin diseases: Psoriasis, dermatitis (creams, detergents, etc.)
- Infections (caused by bacteria or fungi)
WHAT CAN BE DONE TO REDUCE THE ITCH?
The anus and surrounding skin should be kept clean and dry.
For this:
- After defecation, the anus area should be wiped gently, without rubbing, with a soft cloth or toilet paper,
- No cleaning lotion should be used.
- Bathing can be done after defecation and then the area can be dried with a soft towel or a hair dryer.
- Apply unscented talcum powder to the skin around the anus (helps keep the area dry),
- Foods that increase itching should be avoided,
- Avoid tight clothing that puts pressure on the anal area.
- Cotton underwear should be used.
WHAT TESTS CAN BE DONE?
A tissue sample can be taken from the skin in the presence of biopsy, treatment-resistant itching, skin disease or cancer in the examination. Colonoscopy is the examination of the intestine by entering through the anus with a tube with a camera. This process allows to examine the presence of cancer or other underlying diseases.