Description
An intense itching and urge to scratch in and around the anus. The symptoms are most noticeable at night or after a bowel movement. Some patients experience a burning sensation and/or note blood on the toilet paper after passing a stool. The most common causes are prolonged moisture in the area, certain foods, topical irritants, and rarely a parasite called pinworms. This is a common problem that affects up to 5% of the population.
Symptoms
Itching in and around the anus, burning sensation, slight bleeding.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Your doctor can view hemorrhoids using a short tube in the rectum called an anoscope. If pinworms are suspected a tape test is done (tape lifts pinworm eggs off of the skin surface so they can be viewed under a microscope).
Other Specific Tests: Tape test for pinworms
Specialists:
Gastroenterology, Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Family Practice, Pediatric Gastroenterology, Colon and Rectal Surgery
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Your doctor can view hemorrhoids using a short tube in the rectum called an anoscope. If pinworms are suspected a tape test is done (tape lifts pinworm eggs off of the skin surface so they can be viewed under a microscope).
Other Specific Tests: Tape test for pinworms
Specialists:
Gastroenterology, Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Family Practice, Pediatric Gastroenterology, Colon and Rectal Surgery
Treatment
Scratching must be avoided, even if it means wearing mittens at night. Treatment is aimed at the underlying cause, when present. For example, hemorrhoids are helped by avoiding constipation, Sitz baths and hydrocortisone suppositories or creams. Cleanse the skin by patting, and air dry the area. Alcohol or scented lotions should not be used. Anti-parasitic medication (mebendazole or albendazole) is prescribed if the cause is pinworms.