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What is it?
Pruritis ani means itching around the anus. It is a common condition that can be temporary or long-lasting. It may result from irritation, infection, skin conditions, or other underlying problems. Often, it is related to moisture, poor hygiene, or over-cleaning, but sometimes no clear cause is found.
Pruritis Ani Q&A
Signs & Symptoms
Pruritis ani can cause:
- Itching or burning around the anus
- Redness or irritation of the skin
- Thickened or raw skin from repeated scratching
- Discomfort, especially at night or after bowel movements
Diagnosis
At Sonoran Surgical, Dr. Sahai and Dr Paul Tender diagnoses pruritis ani with:
- Medical history and physical exam, looking for irritation, rashes, hemorrhoids, or infection
- Review of hygiene practices, diet, and medications
- In some cases, stool tests, skin swabs, or biopsy may be ordered to rule out infection or skin disease
Treatment
Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and addressing the underlying cause:
- Improving hygiene: gentle cleaning, keeping the area dry, avoiding harsh soaps or wipes
- Topical treatments: soothing creams, antifungal or antibacterial ointments if infection is present, mild stercreams for inflammation
- Lifestyle changes: avoiding spicy foods, caffeine, or irritants that worsen symptoms
- Treating underlying conditions such as hemorrhoids, infections, or skin disorders
- In rare persistent cases, further evaluation with a colorectal surgeon may be needed
If you have ongoing itching, pain, or skin changes around the anus, contact Sonoran Surgical to schedule an evaluation with Dr. Aalok Sahai or Dr Paul Tender. Proper diagnosis and treatment can bring lasting relief.