Bad hygiene

hi there,my question is regarding the area where toilet paper is used,private areas i.e. does improper or excessive usage of TP cause rash and irritation? is it a better way to wash it instead? are there people going to doctors with such issues common? do let me know if there are many people with such issues!

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,

Such symptoms can occur due to moisture(due to sweating or frequent washing), the abrasion caused by clothing, the pressure of sitting, chemical irritants like laundry soaps, colognes and scented toilet paper, certain food irritants, medicines like some antibiotics and laxatives, infections like STD’s and pinworms, anal abrasions and chafing.

Wash the areas several times with fresh water. Do not use any cosmetic products at the sites. You can apply some calamine lotion at the rash as it will help in soothing the skin. Also wear cotton undergarments. Application of mild corticosteroid cream and oral antiinflammatories like ibuprofen/acetaminophen are also helpful. If the symptoms are severe then it will be best to consult a dermatologist.

I hope it helps. Take care and regards.