Persistent itch- anal, now in heel

[GGM700]

For about two or three years I've had persistent itching in the anal area, especially at night.  I saw a GP and she could not diagnose it, just prescribed me some antifungal cream with itch relief.  I am able to control it with that and by washing at night with witch hazel.

Lately I've also developed a persistent itch in one spot of one of my heels.  It is maddening.  I don't see any irritation or sore and it is only in one small spot on my heel.  It feels a little bit crawly, but mostly just itch.  I have to break up the callous and apply the anti-itch cream I usually use on my bum, and even that has limited effect.  It has been going on for a month or two now and messes up my sleep.  I am worried that in addition to having an itchy arse, I'm going to get itchy parts elsewhere.  Any ideas what is going on?

I'm a female and have had vaginal yeast infections, about once or twice a year, and lately have had some bacterial vaginal infections too.  When I was younger I had a couple bouts of ringworm.  The GP said it is her untested theory that once you get a fungal infection, you are susceptible to fungus in other forms.  Is that's what is going on?  I also read that diabetes may cause itching symptoms.

[msmarose]

hi..

I am suffering from a persistent itching on my buttocks, and it's really disturb me at night and at my work... it is contagious...my infected skin become dry and itchy and i'm so worried about it...

pls help me to solve this... many thanks! god bless..

[GGM700]

Thanks very much for your response.  After doing some research I think the heel itch is related to hypothyroidism.  I recently started taking meds for it and have read others say that heel itch is one side effect.  So I'll be taking it up with my endocrinologist next time.

Thanks again!

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,

Your symptoms are suggestive of eczema or dermatitis. Eczema is a form of chronic dermatitis (rash).Allergic reaction is one of the important causes of eczema. Allergic reaction can occur to strong soaps, Solvents, chemicals, certain foods, food additives, plants, metals, cosmetics, even urine and faeces of some animals (dust mites).

You can take some OTC oral antihistamine medications like Benadryl or Claritin and see if it helps.For mild-moderate eczema a weak steroid may be used (e.g. hydrocortisone as dermacort), whilst more severe cases require a higher-potency steroid (e.g. clobetasol propionate, fluocinonide).

Other possibilities are of dry skin(xerosis), skin conditions like psoriasis,dermatitis,lice,scabies and hives, internal diseases like liver and kidney disorders, iron deficiency anemia,diabetes and thyroid disorders.

If even after taking benadryl,there is no relief then pls consult a dermatologist and discuss these options with him.

Hope it helps.Take care and pls do keep me posted on how you are doing.