Itching (rectal)
Synopsis of Itching (rectal)
Rectal itching, medically known as pruritus ani, is an uncomfortable, often embarrassing symptom characterized by persistent itching around the anus. It may be a temporary irritation or a chronic condition, and while often due to local irritation, it can also indicate underlying digestive, dermatological, or parasitic issues.
Common causes include:
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Poor hygiene or over-cleaning (especially with soaps or wipes)
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Hemorrhoids
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Fungal or yeast infections
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Pinworms (especially in children)
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Anal fissures or small skin tears
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Food sensitivities (spicy foods, caffeine, citrus, chocolate)
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Skin conditions (eczema, psoriasis)
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Excess moisture or sweating
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Inflammatory bowel disorders or rectal prolapse
Scratching worsens inflammation, may lead to skin breakdown, and increases the risk of secondary infections.
When to see a doctor:
If the itching is persistent, disrupts sleep, or is accompanied by pain, bleeding, discharge, or a lump, evaluation is needed to rule out infection, parasites, or rectal conditions like hemorrhoids or fistulas.
Natural remedies for Itching (rectal)
Practice Gentle Hygiene: Clean with warm water (no soap), pat dry, and avoid wipes with alcohol or fragrance.
Apply Barrier Creams: Zinc oxide or petroleum jelly protects irritated skin.
Avoid Trigger Foods: Especially spicy, acidic, or irritating foods that may worsen symptoms.
Use Loose, Breathable Clothing: Cotton underwear and proper airflow help reduce moisture.
Take Sitz Baths: Warm shallow baths can soothe inflammation and reduce itching.
Ingredients
These raw ingredients are often used in alternative medicine to treat Itching (rectal)
aloe vera
bisabolol
chamomile
turmeric
dandelion
licorice root
marshmallow
peppermint oil
reishi mushroom
slippery elm bark
vitamin C
zinc
bentonite
ferula assafoetida
white oak
acacia
Almond Oil
Alpha Hydroxy Acids
Allantoin
Abrotanum
Aloe
Alum
Arisaema
Ash (unspecified)
Adsorbant
Belladonna
Baphicacanthus cusia
Benzalkonium chloride
Bisabolene
Bisabolol
Benzoin siam
Black Walnut
Black Mustard
Calendula
Colloid
Camphor
Castor
Camphor
Calamus
Citronella
Chondrus
Diatomaceous Earth
Docosanoic acid
English Ivy
Fruit acid (mixed)
gamma-terpinene
Hydrocolloid
Henna
Ivy
jojoba
Japanese camphor
Jessica's Sticktight
Lichen Oil
Lanolin
Lubricant
Labdanum
Mustard (unspecified)
Marshmallow
Pepper Bark Tree
Quillaja
Rhus glabra
Sabadilla
Stabilizers
Slippery Elm
Sandalwood
Spanish Thyme
Sweet Goldenrod
Sapindus mukorossi
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
Storax
Styrax balsam
Tyrosinase
Tannin
Vervain
Witch Hazel
Wax
Wool