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Gastroenterology (Expert Forum)
Intense Anal Itching
Answered by
Kevin Pho, MD - Internal Medicine
Kevin Pho, MD
Boston - MA
This forum is for questions regarding Gastroenterology issues such as Acid Reflux (GERD), Barretts Esophagus, Colitis, Colon/Bowel Disorders, Crohn's Disease, Diverticulitis/ Diverticulosis, Digestive Disorders, IBS, Stomach Pain.
Intense Anal Itching
by Worriedidiot, May 17, 2006 12:00AM
Hi,
For about the last three weeks I have had a very itchy anus, the severity obviously alters throughout the day, but appears to be fairly constant, especially at night, I think it has woken me up a few times. I know that pin worms have similar night-time symptoms, but i think that is very unlikely as I am very hygeinic & do not have children. On inspection the anus seems a little red, & just by the entrance there feels like a small lump (not hard, not coloured, not really visible).
I have tried anusol, which doesnt really appear to stop the itching, any ideas on the condition, or any suggested over-the-counter treatment?
Thanks in advance.
For about the last three weeks I have had a very itchy anus, the severity obviously alters throughout the day, but appears to be fairly constant, especially at night, I think it has woken me up a few times. I know that pin worms have similar night-time symptoms, but i think that is very unlikely as I am very hygeinic & do not have children. On inspection the anus seems a little red, & just by the entrance there feels like a small lump (not hard, not coloured, not really visible).
I have tried anusol, which doesnt really appear to stop the itching, any ideas on the condition, or any suggested over-the-counter treatment?
Thanks in advance.
Doctor's Answer
by Kevin Pho, MD, May 18, 2006 12:00AM
, May 18, 2006 12:00AM
Parasites, infections, diet, STDs, dermatitis and hemorrhoids can all lead to anal itching.
A digital rectal exam should be done, and any masses found biopsied. Suspicious skine lesions can also be biopsied. Looking for parasites can be accomplished during the physical exam.
In many cases, a low-dose steroid cream can be considered.
However, before treatment I would have this evaluated by a dermatologist.
Followup with your personal physician is essential.
This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.
Kevin, M.D.
kevinmd_
A digital rectal exam should be done, and any masses found biopsied. Suspicious skine lesions can also be biopsied. Looking for parasites can be accomplished during the physical exam.
In many cases, a low-dose steroid cream can be considered.
However, before treatment I would have this evaluated by a dermatologist.
Followup with your personal physician is essential.
This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.
Kevin, M.D.
kevinmd_
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Linda J
I did it again in my late 2o's and used Zentel which was bought at the drug stores in Jamaica and removed the symptoms but it seems they are back.
I ordered more Zentel online but before taking it I need to know if it really hides them in the feces because I don';t want to see them or I will faint, seriously it is that bad, it traumatizes me to see worms let alone comming out of my body.
My family witnessed my trauma when I was eight years old and I cannot go through that again. It is worse now i am 45 years old this year and wonder if there is a surgery to remove them because I can feel them moving and I have the Zentel but don't want to take them unless I know I will not see them in my feces.
Doctor can you tell me if i will see them in my feces if I take Zentel this time and folow a dosage of 400MG X 2 per day for 7 days or will they pass out while I am taking it and be traumatized? It would literally kill me!