This disease is associated with chronic itching of the skin around the anus. The skin of the perirectal area gets exposed to the irritating digestive products in the stool and this might lead to an itchy rash when stools are frequent. The rash gets worsened by vigorous use of toilet paper or scrubbing with soap and water. The intensity of itching increases due to pressure, moisture and abrasion caused due to burning and soreness. This disease troubles during the night or after bowel movements.

It is a self perpetuating disease in which scratching leads to further irritation and which becomes a new source of irritation. This disease generally occurs in men.

Cause

The itching is caused due to the irritating chemicals in the food that is eaten by us such as hot sauces, spices and pepper. It may also result because of the irritation of frequent liquid stools, diarrhea etc. Diseases which increase the risk of yeast infection such as HIV or diabetes mellitus can cause irritation of the anus. Pruritus Ani may also be caused due to hemorrhoids, pinworms, tearing of the anal skin and skin tags.

Symptoms

Changes in the skin occur which are caused due to excoriations, thickening, abrasions, scratching hyperemia and lichenification. The itching generally occurs during the night time.

Treatment

The treatment of this disease varies and depends upon the actual cause of the pruritic condition. In each case the anal hygiene is reassessed and consideration is given to cleanliness and gentle wiping after bowel movements. Treatment is meant to reduce the irritation of the anal skin. It is very important to ensure careful, thorough and gentle cleansing after bowel movements. Toilet paper must be moistened with lukewarm water as dry toilet paper not clean well and also irritates the skin. It is a stubborn disease which requires months of local medication and gentle skin care. Some people are required to continue the medication once or twice daily indefinitely as itching tends to return. One must eat plenty of high fibre fruits such as fruit, cereals and vegetables and should avoid spicy food, coffee, beer, orange juice etc. One must also avoid scratching and rubbing which is the main cause of the continuation of pruritus ani.

A number of patients experience some form of relief from itching within a week. Complete cure takes around four to six months. One must undertake a follow up appointment with the colon and rectal surgeon in order to avoid the reoccurrence of the condition.