Anuradha Varanasi
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Written By: Anuradha Varanasi | Updated : July 8, 2016 5:18 PM IST
Read this in HINDI.
There s nothing worse than relentless redness and itching in the anal region because not only can it affect your productivity but also significantly reduce the quality of your life. While this is an extremely embarrassing problem, if you have been suffering from an itchy butt, know that you are not alone. In fact, doctors say that this is an extremely common problem their patients complain about. These are the six causes that Dr Aparna Santhanam, a Mumbai-based Dermatologist and Cosmetologist, says you need to know about if you are prone to redness and itching in your rear end.
Fungal infection
This is a very common cause of anal itching which is similar to Athlete s Foot, a common skin infection caused by fungus, which can spread to the groin, palms and other parts of the body. Here are expert tips to prevent Athlete s foot.The reason behind fungal infection being a common cause is because fungus thrives in moist and warm places. By scratching, it could only aggravate the problem. In such cases, Dr Santhanam says a topical anti-fungal ointment is prescribed to treat the red patches and itchiness that develops around the anal area.
Threadworms or pinworm
These are tiny worms that are only 13 mm long and this parasitic worm lives in the colon and rectum. While you sleep, female pinworms leave the intestines through the anus and lay eggs on the nearby skin which is what causes itchiness. Avoid scratching the area despite the urge as it could result in the eggs getting lodged in your fingernails, making it easier for them to get transferred to your gut from your mouth. If more than one person in your family is complaining of anal itching, the cause is definitely pinworms. If you suspect you have worms, make sure to regularly wash your hands and consult your doctor for the right medication.Here's why you should undergo de-worming every six months.
Atopic Dermatitis
If you have noticed that the skin around your anal opening has rashes that are flaky and itchy, it could be atopic dermatitis eczema that is causing these symptoms, says Dr Santhanam. While this is more common in children, in adults eczema or atopic dermatitis can also be caused by tight pants or by wearing undergarments made of synthetic material. If the itching and redness doesn t subside on its own, consult your dermatologist who will prescribe topical ointments or antibiotics for treating this skin condition.
Piles or Hemorrhoids
Anal itching is a very common complaint for patients suffering from piles or hemorrhoids because of the discharge such an anal condition can produce. Practice good hygiene and keep your bottom clean and dry as far as possible. You could also try sitting in a tub of hot potassium water to reduce the discomfort or an over the counter ointment. 'Chronic constipation is also a major cause behind anal itchiness which also causes anal conditions like piles and fissures,' says Dr Santhanam. Here's how you can treat piles and know what to expect from the process.
Toilet paper or wet wipes
By overusing toilet paper or wet pipes, you could put yourself at the risk of anal itching and in some cases, even redness because of a perfume, alcohol or preservative used in these products. Dr Santhanam recommends switching to a product that is not scented or pre-moistened.
Pilonidal sinus
Pilondial sinus is another hole that develops in the cleft of the buttocks or what is more commonly known as the butt crack . Dr Santhanam says that it is another cause of anal itching though it is not as common as eczema, pinworms or piles. It can also be an extremely painful ailment if it gets infected and the hole gets filled with pus. The exact cause of pilonidal sinus is unknown but doctors suspect it is caused by loose hair piercing the skin. If you notice any swelling, boil or redness at the top of your buttocks along with itching, immediately consult your doctor before there are any chances of infection.
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