Itch on left side of anus

I got an itch on the left side of my anus.  When I went to scratch it, I found that the skin on that side is irregular, wrinkled and itchy.  I discovered this problem about a year ago.    Please help

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Causes of itchy, 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, 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 itching depends on the cause of the problem. 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. If your symptoms are worse at night, please take an antihistamine like Benadryl to reduce itching until topical treatments take effect.
I hope it helps. Take care and please do keep me posted in case you have any additional doubts. Kind regards.