HELP ANAL RASH

[Cay2008]

I have a rash in my anal area.I dont think its a STD cause i use condoms and i dont have anal sex . I dont have insurance but i was able to get my hands on 2.5% hydrocortizone. Will this work?

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Causes of anal rash include 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 fissures and skin problems such as psoriasis, seborrhea and eczema. Sometimes hemorrhoids will start off as red rash and anal itching.

Treatment of anal rash depends on the cause of the problem. It may include self-care measures, changes to your diet, treatment of infections or, rarely, surgery to correct an underlying problem.So pls get an examination done by a der,atologist to confirm the diagnosis.Till that time,try an over-the-counter (OTC) cream or ointment containing hydrocortisone (Cortaid, Preparation H),but it is to be applied sparingly to the affected area. A protective ointment that contains zinc oxide (Desitin, Balmex) also may help. Don’t use 2.5 % hydrocortisone cream as the area is very sensitive and it is better to start with smaller strength first.

I hope it helps.Take care and pls do keep me posted on how you are doing or if you have any additional doubts.Kind regards.

[Cay2008]

Thank you so much. I started off using my baby's Aveeno Diaper rash cream and that stings a little at first but feels a little better soon after.Tomorrow i plan on trying Cortaid or Preparation H.

Again thanks, I will gladly keep you posted