A related discussion,
discomfort in the backpassage was started.
A related discussion,
red anas was started.
I'm a 50 yr old female, with Crohn's disease, who's had similar sypmtoms. Do you also have leakage evident by staining? I call them LBJ (leaking butt juices). As the Doctor in this column suggested, my situation WAS internal hemmoroids. A quick form of relief from the external discomfort of the internal hemmorids is an over the counter product called Balneol. (Spelling may be incorrect). It's a lotion-like cleanser you dab onto toilet paper and wipe yourself with AFTER the initial wipe. As a previous contributor mentions, small amounts of fecal matter can contribute to the problem. My problem rarely flares up. A simple in-office sigmoidoscopy can detect internal hemmoriods. Check with your pharmacist for an OTC anal cleaner/lotion in the meantime. Good luck.
Things that can lead to your symptoms can include hemorrhoids or a anal fissure amongst others.
I would certainly consider a thorough physical exam of the area. An anoscopy can be done to visualize any hemorrhoids. An anal fissure can be visualized during exam.
Hemorrhoids can be treated with steroid suppositories. If an anal fissure is suspected, things like topical nitroglycerin, botox injections and calcium channel blocks can all be considered.
If these diagnoses have been ruled out, a more thorough diagnostic study like a sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy can be considered.
These options can be discussed with your personal physician.
Followup with your personal physician is essential.
This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.
Kevin, M.D.
Medical Weblog:
kevinmd_b
could this be a fungal infection?
if so,try smearing some yogurt with live culture on it.
You may have a beginning of a fistula developing which can feel like it comes and goes, itches, gets red and sore, fills up with fluid, etc. Or you may not be wiping as well, as fecal matter burns outside the body. Best thing to do is make an appointment with a gastroenterologist and have a sigmoidoscopy to determine what is going on. A GP is ok, but the Gastro guys know what this is. Good luck!