Skin irritation around rectum

[tjk100]

The past year or so, I've noticed that occasionally the skin right above my rectum, between the buttocks, becomes irritated and stings. It usually gets so bad that every step I take when I'm walking I feel the sting, and even when I sit down in most positions it continues. I'm pretty sure it's not a rash, because it doesn't itch. Perhaps it's diaper rash?

The problem seems to come from fecal residue that makes its way onto the skin (or perhaps on my underwear and then on my skin from there when I sit down). First off, yes, I do know how to wipe when I use the bathroom, and I change my underwear regularly. So I'm not sure how this keeps occurring. Today, it occurred when I had one of those oh-so-wonderful moments when I thought I just had to pass a little gas and it turned out there was more than just gas waiting to come out. I was sitting down at the time and, even though I went to the bathroom immediately to clean up, the skin irritation came on full force.

Again, I'm pretty sure it's not a rash. It's also not hemorrhoids, or anything that WebMD suggested it might be. I've tried everything from lotions, to Preparation H, to baby powder and it almost always persists. Luckily, it usually doesn't stick around very long, and after a night's sleep it USUALLY goes away (occasionally I wake up and it's still there). But whenever it does occur, it tends to put a damper on my day as I immediately have no desire except to go home, put on comfy shorts, and lay down till it goes away. Since I work a full time job on my feet every day, this problem is worse when it occurs.

Any help finding out the problem or easiest solution to make the irritation go away is highly appreciated.

[Kim21478]

I would have sensitive skin baby wipes on hand and wipe with those....also if it is really bad have some balmex or desitin on hand it works!!!

[bigsissie]

Have you considered using wipes to control the flare ups and antibacterial cream when it does flare up? These may help. Outside of this I would ask your doctor what the cause could be. You may have some type of bad bacteria build up in your colon and it could be causing the flare ups. Just a thought. Best wishes.

Sissie