Information for patients, relatives and carers
What is pruritis ani?
Pruritis ani is a common condition which causes itching or irritation around the anus (back passage).
What are the causes?
Pruritus ani has many possible causes, including haemorrhoids (piles) and certain skin conditions. However, the most common cause is a minor discharge from the anus. If small amounts of faeces (bowel movement) or liquid mucus (slime) leaks from the anus, this can irritate the delicate and sensitive skin around the anus.
Can it be cured?
Yes, though this takes time and patience. It may take many months of gentle care to improve the symptoms.
What can I do to help myself?
- After a bowel motion, try gently washing the area with water. Avoid soap or wet wipes as these can dry out the skin. Alternative options are soft toilet paper, or damp cotton wool.
- If you do not have access to a bidet, you may find that sitting on the edge of the bath and using a shower head makes washing easier. If you are at work, take a small plastic bottle of water into the toilet with you to wash with after each bowel movement. Some people find cold water more soothing than warm water.
- Avoid using a flannel, your hand is best.
- Dry the area by gently patting with a soft towel or tissue. Avoid rubbing. Some find a hairdryer on cool setting can help.
- If your leakage continues after cleaning, use a small plug of cotton wool in the anus to prevent the faeces or mucus from coming out and irritating the skin.
- Try not to scratch the area. If you find that you are scratching in your sleep, wear some cotton mittens in bed. You can get these from your chemist.
- Do not use any creams, deodorants, talcum powder, antiseptics or anything else on your anus, apart from the treatment suggested by your specialist.
- Do not put anything in your bath water. In particular, avoid all antiseptics, bath salts, bath oils and bubble bath.
- Wear loose cotton underwear and change this every day. Avoid man-made fabrics coming into contact with the skin around your bottom.
- Women should wear stockings or open-crotch tights rather than regular tights to reduce sweating.
- You should also avoid tight trousers or jeans and sitting on plastic chairs for long periods of time.
- Wash your underwear in nonbiological washing powder and make sure that all traces of detergent are rinsed out.
Should I change my diet?
Although there is no specific diet to follow, it is important to try and establish a regular bowel habit.
A diet that is high in fibre makes the faeces softer and more likely to cause leakage. You can try to make your faeces firmer, and so less likely to leak by reducing the amount of fibre in your diet. This means avoiding large quantities of bran cereals, muesli, beans, peas, pulses and nuts. Limit the amount of fruit and vegetables, particularly those with skins, you eat.
Avoid lagers and flat beers, as these can make the problem worse.
Avoid coffee, chocolate and fruit juices high in citric acid, as these make the itch worse.
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Please contact the patient advice and liaison service (PALS)
Frimley Park Hospital 0300 613 6530
Heatherwood Hospital and Wexham Park Hospital 0300 615 3365