Many people have bouts of itching around the anus. It can be very frustrating especially since the skin in this area is thin and sensitive.
Treatment of pinworms is with an oral medication.
Treating the cause will always produce the best result but temporary relief can be obtained by salty water (sitz)baths, and the application of antifungal and steroid creams.
A sitz bath immerses the rectal area in warm circulating water or a saline solution. A special sitz bathtub can be purchased from a chemist. It is a shallow basin that directs warm water over the rectal area while sitting. Another way to give a sitz bath is to sit in shallow, warm water and gently paddle the water toward the rectal area.
Prevention of rectal itching involves washing properly and avoiding irritants. One should bathe daily with a mild soap. Do not scratch. Scratching worsens the problem. Clean the area with a soft tissue and cool water after bowel movements. Treat constipation with a high fibre diet. For some people, spicy foods, coffee, and colas increase itching.
Your laundry detergent may be an irritant, or you may be using too much of it. Loose cotton underwear allows more air contact. People sensitive to dyes should use only white underwear. Change underwear daily and when soiled. Avoid bubble baths, scented or coloured toilet paper, and genital or anal deodorants if you have rectal itching. Dusting with unscented talcum powder or cornstarch may help.
Article #4420
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