Can Psoriasis Cause an Itchy Anus?

Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that develops when your overactive immune system produces too many skin cells too quickly, leading to thick, scaly patches known as plaques. These plaques often become inflamed, leading to pain and itching.

When you have psoriasis, these skin lesions can appear anywhere on your body. Sometimes, you can develop a subtype of psoriasis called genital psoriasis, which triggers overgrowth of skin cells around your genitals and anus. This can cause incredibly uncomfortable symptoms in areas with more delicate, sensitive tissues.

If you’ve been plagued by chronic anal itching and have psoriasis, the two are likely connected and will require some proactive treatment in order to get relief.  

At Midwest Hemorrhoid Treatment Center in Town and Country, Missouri, Betsy Clemens, MD, and the rest of our team provide compassionate, expert care for rectal disorders, including anal itching. In this month’s blog, we’re discussing what you need to know about genital psoriasis, including how to recognize if you have it and how to effectively manage symptoms. 

Could psoriasis be causing your anal itching?

Although genital psoriasis causes anal itching, many other conditions that affect the areas around your genitals and anus do as well. So how do you know if it’s psoriasis?

The National Psoriasis Foundation states that two-thirds of those with psoriasis develop it in the genital area. So, if you already have a psoriasis diagnosis, it’s possible that the condition has spread to other parts of your body.

Telltale signs of psoriasis around the anus are itching, pain, soreness, and scaly lesions. You may also develop bacterial infections around your anal area.

If you don’t have a psoriasis diagnosis, it’s not likely that you only have it around your anus or genitals. Because of this, if you’ve suddenly developed itching, burning, or pain in the area, it’s important to have it examined by a professional such as Dr. Clemens. 

Treating anal itching from psoriasis 

To soothe itching and skin irritation from psoriasis, apply a topical treatment, such as a lotion, ointment, or a mild corticosteroid cream.

Often, self-care remedies can offer symptom relief and help your body properly heal and repair irritated skin. These include wearing loose clothing and underwear, using high-quality toilet paper, eating more fiber, and rinsing your anal area with a peri bottle after having a bowel movement.

To learn more about how our team can help you get the much-needed relief from anal itching, schedule an evaluation by calling our office or using our online booking feature today.