Why does my fissure itch

It is not completely understood why some fissures heal and others do not. One major factor is persistent constipation or diarrhea, which can prevent healing. In addition, each time stool passes, the muscle goes into spasm, tightening the anal canal. If the sphincter muscle does not relax and the anal canal remains too tight, the fissure opens again with each bowel movement.

Rarely, a fissure can be caused by Crohn's disease or an infection. Treatment for the underlying disease usually relieves the fissure. Fissures very rarely become infected and they do not become cancerous. Most superficial fissures heal without treatment, but some become chronic and cause ongoing discomfort.

The first step is to correct the constipation or diarrhea and treat any underlying disease. A high-fiber diet or dietary bulk agent with plenty of fluids is recommended. A topical anesthetic ointment may help relieve the pain. The spasm may also be relieved by sitting in a warm bath several times a day.

Many patients present to our office with symptoms of severe itching around the anus. Others come thinking they have hemorrhoids, because they have experienced bright red rectal bleeding. On physical exam, physicians often find an area that is very sore and irritated with very fine cracks in the skin.

These cracks are called fissures. Some fissures are more external on the skin and readily visible. Other fissures are situated more deeply inside. If yours are the ones that are more visible, then this handout is appropriate for you. Many times, it is over-cleansing that causes the problem. After having a bowel movement, either wash with a washcloth and warm water or use Tucks Medicated Wipes.

A less expensive method is to use baby wipes that do not contain alcohol. Scrubbing is not necessary. Just gentle cleansing. It is important to use hypoallergenic soaps and shampoos. Many people with this condition have fair skin. They are very sensitive to perfumes and dyes. I like to recommend Aveeno, Oilatum, or Lever soaps. Anything that states that it is hypoallergenic would probably suffice. For those who really have problems, they will also need to get a hypoallergenic shampoo.

Hemorrhoids are usually associated with pain or a burning sensation around your anus, but unpleasant itching can also be a symptom. The swollen blood vessels known as hemorrhoids are not typically dangerous to your health, but they can cause significant discomfort.

Digging a little deeper into the list of problems, we move from skin conditions affecting the outside of your body to conditions inside you. Anal fissures , or small tears in the lining of the rectum and anus, can also lead to serious discomfort and itching.

More serious medical conditions can also lead to a nasty itch in your shorts. Prolonged bouts of diarrhea can lead to irritation around the anus, partly because they result in the need to wipe more often. Though needing to wipe often is not a serious concern in and of itself, the loss of fluids and nutrients from loose stools can be a problem, especially for older Americans. Fecal incontinence is another potential source of irritation. In this case, your body is no longer able to maintain control over your bowel movements, which can lead to anal leakage and the skin irritation that comes with it.

Real cause for concern begins to mount as we get to the end of the list of possible causes of anal irritation. Anal tumors, anal cancer, and serious gastrointestinal diseases including colon cancer could possibly result in rectal bleeding and irritation of the perianal area. These conditions are very serious, as advanced cancers in the gastrointestinal tract can prove lethal. With few other symptoms, colon or rectal cancer can often reach a late stage without being diagnosed until blood begins appearing in your stool.

Lifestyle and disease factors can possibly result in itching around your anus, but it is possible that the food you eat could contribute as well. Anyone who has eaten too much hot salsa may know the unique pain of a warm reminder the next day after a bowel movement.

The same peppers that make spicy food irresistible to eat can cause discomfort and irritation to the skin around your anus. Too much spicy food is only one potential dietary cause of anal itchiness. Citrus fruits, tomatoes, caffeinated drinks, dairy products, and even chocolate have been identified as potential irritants.

Not everyone who is scratching at their shorts is going to have to give up their beloved chocolate bar or much-loved caffeine jolt, but it is possible that you may need to modify your diet if you have a condition such as inflammatory bowel disease or Crohn's disease.

An itchy bottom is something you certainly don't want to talk about, and some people may be hesitant to practice good self care of their backsides. There is no reason to be hesitant, though, as simple home remedies can often clear up the underlying cause of your anal itching. The first thing to do is ensure you are keeping the area around your anus free of excess moisture and other potential irritants. Cleaning the area with warm water and a clean washcloth when you bathe is a start.

Ensuring you are keeping the area around your anus dry is the next step. Wearing loose, breathable cotton underwear can help ensure excess moisture does not build up on irritated skin. Over-the-counter medications are available to help relieve the itching and burning associated with hemorrhoids and other conditions. These creams are applied to the affected area and contain a variety of active ingredients, including hydrocortisone, zinc-oxide, or capsaicin cream.

If your anal itching proves to be persistent and hard to get rid of, you may need to seek medical advice.