What Is Pruritus Ani?
Though potentially embarrassing to discuss with your doctor, pruritus ani or anal itching is a common condition that affects many people, according to the Mayo Clinic. Normally, it poses no danger, and there are some self-care techniques you can employ to manage the symptoms.
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Symptoms
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Pruritus ani's primary symptoms are itching and occasional burning in the area that surrounds your anus. The itching is sometimes very severe and highly uncomfortable.
Types
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Pruritus ani has the potential to be acute, coming on suddenly and lasting a short amount of time. The condition can also be chronic, continuing on for a period of weeks or months, or may come and go from time to time.
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Causes
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There are a number of possible causes for pruritus ani, including dry skin, moisture from sweat, frequent diarrhea, the passage of small amounts of stool without your knowledge (incontinence), irritation from toilet paper, laundry soaps and other chemical irritants, spices found in hot sauce, foods like alcohol and popcorn, antibiotic medications, laxative abuse, hemorrhoids, eczema, vaginal yeast infections and anal fissures.
Treatment
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Over-the-counter ointments that contain cortisone or zinc oxide often alleviate the discomfort of pruritus ani. Wearing cotton underwear, changing toilet paper brands and avoiding the temptation to scratch also aid in the healing of pruritus ani, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Time Frame
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In most cases, pruritus ani clears up within a week, reports the Mayo Clinic. If your symptoms persist for more than six weeks or if you experience bleeding from your rectum along with pruritus ani, seek medical advice.
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