Red irritation by anus

Hey medical community,

I've had this rash-like thing around my anus for about a month now. Sometimes it looks like it's getting better and going away, and other times it is very red and inflamed. It's not itchy or painful, but it is a series of tiny red bumps, right by my anus. It's not ugly or blister-like or anything, but it is annoying and stressing me out. Any ideas? This is such a sensitive part of my body. I'd rather avoid the doctor if possible.

[Paddy78]

It seems a infection , take stinz bath twice a day and see if the condition better . Keep the area dry

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Such a rash can be 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 and skin problems like folliculitis, intertrigo, seborrhea and eczema. Sometimes hemorrhoids will start off as red rash and anal itching.

Wear cotton clothes and try an over-the-counter (OTC) cream or ointment containing hydrocortisone but it is to be applied sparingly to the affected area.  Calamine lotion also may help. If your symptoms are worse at night, please take an antihistamine like Benadryl. In case the symptoms are severe then please get it evaluated from a dermatologist.

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.

[hypochondriac827]

Dr. Kaur,

Thank you for your response. In the past few months, I've also experienced a lot of stomach problems. I've had diahrrea for the past few days, and the rash is beginning to be painful. We're trying to see a dermatologist, but it'll be a month at least. This is such a sensitive subject...I'm embarassed and beginning to worry.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Thanks for the clarification, diarrhea which you had recently can be responsible for this anal rash because of constant moisture and rubbing of the area while cleaning the area. Try the above mentioned treatment and in addition, wear cotton undergarments. Application of mild corticosteroid cream and oral antiinflammatories like ibuprofen/acetaminophen are also helpful.

I hope it helps. Take care and regards.