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Lifestyle and home remedies
By Mayo Clinic staffPrevention of anal itching mainly involves washing properly and avoiding irritants. If you already have anal itching, try these self-care measures:
- Cleanse gently. Wash the area in the morning, at night and immediately after bowel movements. But don't scrub and avoid using soap. Instead, use a wet washcloth, wet toilet paper, unscented flushable bathroom wipes, cotton balls moistened with water, unscented baby wipes or a small squeeze bottle of water to cleanse the area.
- Dry thoroughly. After cleansing, pat the area dry with toilet paper or a towel. Or dry thoroughly with a hair dryer. Once dry, place a piece of cotton gauze against the anus to help keep the area dry. Replace the cotton as necessary. Nonmedicated talcum or cornstarch powder also can help keep the area dry.
- Use over-the-counter (OTC) treatments correctly. Apply OTC creams sparingly. Don't use these treatments unless directed by your doctor. For some people, creams or ointments may cause more irritation, and they may mask a persistent problem.
- Don't scratch. Scratching further irritates your skin and leads to persistent inflammation. If you can't tolerate the itching, apply a cold compress to the area or take a lukewarm bath to find some immediate relief. Keep busy to distract yourself from scratching.
- Switch tissue. The skin around your anus may be sensitive to toilet paper that contains dyes or perfumes. Use unbleached, unscented toilet paper. You may want to use toilet paper that's moistened or made extra soft for comfort, or unscented flushable bathroom wipes.
- Wear cotton underwear and loose clothing. This helps keep the area dry. Avoid wearing pantyhose and other tight-fitting garments because these can trap moisture. Change your underwear daily and whenever it's soiled.
- Avoid irritants. Avoid bubble baths and genital deodorants. Cut back or avoid beverages or foods that you know irritate your anal area. Avoid overuse of laxatives that increase diarrhea and the risk of anal irritation and itching.
References
- Breen E, et al. Approach to the patient with anal pruritus. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed March 24, 2010.
- Pruritus ani. American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons. http://www.fascrs.org/patients/conditions/pruritus_ani/. Accessed March 30, 2010.
- Pfenninger J, et al. Common anorectal conditions: Part I symptoms and complaints. American Family Physician. 2001;63:2391. http://www.aafp.org/afp/20010615/2391.html. Accessed March 30, 2010.
- Pruritis ani. The Merck Manuals: The Merck Manual for Healthcare Professionals. http://www.merck.com/mmpe/sec02/ch020/ch020j.html?qt=Pruritus%20Ani&alt=sh#sec02-ch020-ch020h-1370. Assessed March 30, 2010.
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