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Education
| Educational
Materials:
Pruritus
Ani |
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What
Is Pruritus Ani?
Pruritus
ani is bothersome and sometimes intense
itching of the skin around the anus (rectal
opening). It is most noticeable at night
or after a bowel movement. The most common
complaint is an irresistible urge to
scratch. Some people will experience
a burning sensation or note occasional
bleeding when wiping after a bowel movement.
This is a common problem that affects
up to 5% of the population. It affects
men and women and may occur at any age.
How
Is Pruritus Ani Diagnosed?
It
is diagnosed by an examination of the
skin around the anal area. The appearance
of the skin will vary, depending on the
severity and the length of time the condition
has been present. It may start with redness
of the skin and can progress to thickening
of the skin. It may also lead to cracks
and open sores which may result in a
burning sensation and small amounts of
blood on the toilet tissue. Sometimes
a biopsy (a small piece of skin removed
for microscopic examination) is necessary.
What
Causes Pruritus Ani?
There
are many causes of pruritus ani but most
fall into three categories:
Moisture
Prolonged exposure to moisture from
vaginal discharge, perspiration, loose
stools or mucus discharge from other
rectal problems may lead to pruritus
ani. For example, people who perspire
when they exercise may find the moisture
irritating to the skin around the rectum.
Tight clothing, nylon underwear, and
skin folds resulting from obesity may
trap moisture in the area.
Diet
Certain foods can produce enzymes that
are irritating to the skin when stool
is passed. The more common ones are
products containing caffeine (coffee,
tea, colas, and chocolate), spicy foods,
dairy products, beer, citrus fruits,
tomatoes, and nuts.
Skin Irritants
Dyed or scented toilet paper, soaps,
and laundry detergent may cause the
irritation. Stool left on the skin
from leakage or incomplete hygiene
may be another cause. Occasionally,
once the itching starts, some people
may respond with excessive wiping of
the area which can increase symptoms.
Other Causes
Other rare causes are pinworms and
various skin conditions such as fungal
infections or skin burns from radiation.
There
is no specific test to determine
the cause of pruritus ani. It is
often a trial and error process
to discover what may be causing
your skin irritation and how to
resolve it.
How
Is It Treated?
Treatment
of pruritus ani is directed at the care
of the skin and determination of the
underlying cause. After gently cleansing
the skin by patting, it is important
to make sure the skin is dry. Some people
use a hair dryer. Apply the ointment
recommended by your doctor. Place a wisp
of rolled cotton between the cheeks to
absorb moisture. What
Can I do to Speed Healing and Help
Prevent Pruritus Ani?
DO
NOT:
- Scratch
or rub the anal area. Wipe gently.
- Use
scented, colored or patterned
toilet paper.
- Use
cleansing pads moistened with
alcohol.
- Consume
spicy foods, tomatoes, nuts,
dairy products, or beer.
- Consume
caffeine (cola drinks, coffee,
tea, chocolate).
DO:
- Use
plain white toilet paper or moist
wipes to cleanse after bowel
movements.
- Wipe
gently - never rub harshly.
- Use
mild soap or don't use soap at
all.
- Gently
dry skin thoroughly (you can
use a hairdryer).
- Wear
loose clothing and underclothing.
- Wear
cotton rather than nylon underwear.
- Take
prescribed medications.
- Watch
your diet and eliminate foods
that seem to make your condition
worse. When your symptoms (itching)
disappear, you may be able to
resume these in moderation.
- Increase
your fiber and water or juice
intake if you tend to be constipated.
- Loose
stool may require evaluation.
Increase your fiber intake to
absorb the extra moisture in
the stool.
- Return
to your doctor's office for follow-up
visits as recommended.
Your
physician may have additional suggestions
for you.
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Berks
Colorectal Surgical Associates
Frank M. Carter, M.D.
Wayne C. DeVos, M.D., PHD.
301 South 7th Ave, Suite 100 :: West Reading, PA 19611
Telephone: 610.375.6001 :: Fax: 610.374.0678
. Web Development by iwebminds.com
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