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Pruritus ani
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Pruritus ani is the irritation of the skin at the exit of the rectum, known as the anus, causing the desire to scratch. The intensity of anal itching increases from moisture, pressure, and rubbing caused by clothing and sitting. At worst, anal itching causes intolerable discomfort that often is described as burning and soreness.
Anal itching can be caused by irritating chemicals in the foods we eat, such as are found in spices, hot sauces, and peppers. It also can be caused by the irritation of frequent liquid stools, diarrhea, or escape of small amounts of stool (incontinence). Diseases that increase the possibility of yeast infections, such as diabetes mellitus or HIV infection, as well as treatment with antibiotics can lead to a yeast infection and irritation of the anus. Psoriasis also can irritate the anus. Abnormal passageways (fistulas) from the small intestine or colon to the skin surrounding the anus can form as a result of disease (such as Crohn's disease), and these fistulas bring irritating fluids to the anal area. Other problems that can cause anal itching include pinworms, hemorrhoids, tears of the anal skin (fissures), and skin tags (abnormal local growth of anal skin).
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