Hemorrhoids vs. Anal Fissures: How to Spot the Difference
Hemorrhoids and anal fissures have similar causes and symptoms, but are two distinct conditions. Click here to learn how you can spot the difference.
Anal itchiness every time you sit down is uncomfortable in many ways. And a symptom you’re probably hoping to find a reasonable explanation for on the internet.
At Midwest Hemorrhoid Treatment Center in Town and Country, Missouri, our board-certified family physician Dr. Betsy Clemens is an expert at diagnosing and treating rectal disorders that cause anal itchiness.
Here, we want to tell you why it’s so itchy when you sit down and what you can do about it.
Anal itching, also called pruritus ani, is an uncomfortable skin condition that occurs when the tissue in the anal area is irritated. The itchiness is so intense it triggers an uncontrollable urge to itch the area. But itching provides no relief and may make your symptom worse.
And any extra pressure on the area, like when you’re sitting, may exacerbate your discomfort. It’s also not unusual for this type of itchiness to increase after a bowel movement or at night when you’re trying to sleep.
Anal itchiness isn’t a disease, but a symptom. But it’s possible to have anal itching without any known cause, this is called primary pruritus ani.
In many cases, anal itching occurs from some other cause, or secondary pruritus ani, such as an infection or a skin condition like eczema or contact dermatitis. Rectal disorders like hemorrhoids, anal fissures, and fistulas also cause anal itchiness.
Your diet (acidic foods, dairy products, caffeine) and hygiene habits (failure to fully wipe away stool or wiping too much) may also irritate the sensitive anal tissue, resulting in anal discomfort.
Knowing the cause of your anal itchiness helps direct treatment.
The first thing we recommend to our patients suffering from anal itchiness is to establish good hygiene habits when you’re on the toilet. You need to wipe your anus well and gently pat dry the area after pooping. You can also try over-the-counter (OTC) cortisone creams to reduce inflammation and itching or hemorrhoid creams or wipes.
If you have a bacterial, parasitic, or fungal infection, we prescribe medication (antibiotic or antifungal) to treat the cause of your discomfort. Eliminating irritating foods from your diet may also help, along with using detergents, soaps, and toilet paper without added perfumes.
For rectal disorders, like hemorrhoids and anal fissures, we provide a plan that reduces symptoms now and prevents problems in the future. This might include sitz baths, improving toilet habits, and eating more fiber-rich foods.
Anal itchiness is a frustrating symptom that may occur from any number of causes. There’s no need to suffer in silence. We can help you get relief. Call our office 314-669-2758 today to schedule an appointment with our expert.
