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We all know how crucial a perfect night’s sleep could be. There is no shortage of interruptions that could interfere with one’s sleep. It is vital to take care of the interruptions that can be controlled. Are you one of the many who are up at night due to an irritating itch in your anal canal? If so, this blog is for you. Let’s see in detail about anal itching symptoms and causes, and its treatment.
What is Anal Itching?
An itchy anus or pruritus ani is a common condition that is uncomfortable and embarrassing. It causes a constant urge to scratch if the itching is in or around your anus. Chronic anal itching might lead to an itch-scratch-itch habit.
When you scratch to make the itching feel better, it worsens the irritation and leads to a cycle of itching and scratching. Several reasons, including diarrhea, hemorrhoids, dermatitis, and more, can cause this.
What are the Symptoms of Anal Itching?
The most common symptoms of anal itching at night are inflammation, soreness, intense dryness, and irritation. The symptoms might vary depending on the cause of anal itching. Usually, anal itching symptoms and causes aggravate, specifically at night, based on the weather or climate.
Are you wondering when to consult a physician? Mostly, medical assistance is not necessary for anal itching or pruritus ani. But it is important to consult a Skin Care Specialist in Coimbatore if your anal itching causes stool leakage, anal bleeding, if it is consistent, severe, infected, and if you can’t figure out the cause.
What Causes Anus Itching at Night?
Anal itching can be caused by various reasons. The skin around your anal region is way too sensitive. Fragrant soaps, powders, creams, and lotions can cause itching of the skin around your anal region. It can also get irritated if you use hot water, use rough wash clothes, or scented toilet paper to clean the anal area.
These are the common causes, but what could cause anal itching at night?
1.Anal Fissures or Hemorrhoids
If you have anal itching at night, it might be due to anal fissures or hemorrhoids. These are already existing conditions, but could get worse if there is excessive night sweating, an unhealthy diet, and using the toilet often during nighttime.
2. Threadworms
Threadworm or pinworm is a parasite that affects the human digestive system. When the females lay eggs around the anus, the itching will be more extreme. These worms can be transferred from one person to another as they can survive on bed sheets and clothes.
Threadworms are the most common condition in kids and can be detected by testing their stool sample. You can treat this condition with strict hygiene measures and medications.
3. Clothing Fabrics
Tight and non-flexible clothes can lead to irritation in the anal region. Always go for cotton underwear that is comfortable and loose at nighttime to get rid of itching and irritation.
4. Skin Conditions
People experience different skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and more, and that does not leave out the skin around the buttocks or anal. Consult with a dermatologist at the best dermatology hospital in Coimbatore to treat diseases like eczema or psoriasis in case you have the following symptoms:
- Itchiness
- Redness
- Flakiness
- Pain
- Irritation
5. Medications Before Bedtime
The side effect of consuming certain medications might cause itchiness. Medications taken for antibiotics and blood pressure are some of the examples that contribute to anal itching at night. Antibiotics might kill the good bacteria in your gut, which leads to diarrhea. This could make the symptoms of anal itching much worse.
6. Bathroom Habits and Hygiene
Always make sure you wipe or clean thoroughly after using the toilet. Wiping the area around the anal region too hard might overdry it and cause itchiness. On the other hand, wiping the area too gently might leave out some stool residue and cause much irritation, leading to broken or chapped skin.
7. Sweat
Generally, sweat irritates the skin by retaining heat, leading to dryness. If you sweat too much at night, itchiness can be more prevalent. By finding solutions to combat night sweats, you can prevent anal itching at night.
How is Anal Itching Treated?
Treatment for anal itching usually focuses on good anal hygiene. Clean the anal region thoroughly every time after pooping, dry it, and apply non-medicated talc. In case you have secondary pruritus ani, then the following treatment could help.
- Topical remedies such as creams and ointments.
- Antibiotics and antifungal medication.
What Are The Home Remedies to Combat Anal Itching?
Certain home remedies could help get rid of anal itching. They are:
- Avoid certain foods & drinks like raw garlic, hot peppers, cola, coffee, and tea.
- Wear cotton underwear.
- Use dye-free & unscented toilet papers.
- Avoid harsh soaps, scents & deodorants.
- Do not consume acidic foods such as citrus fruits and tomatoes.
- Do not consume carbonated drinks.
- Intake less amount of dairy products.
Takeaway
Anal itchiness can be one of the most common reasons that affects your sleep at night. You must see some improvements in your symptoms if you make some changes in your everyday routine.
Always be mindful of your hygiene practices, sleep environment, and dietary habits, so that you can find the primary reason for your anal itching. If your anal itching gets worse or persists, it is wise to book an appointment with your medical advisor.