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How can you care for anal itching?
- After bowel movements, clean the area gently with a warm washcloth or a towelette, such as a baby wipe. Do not use products that contain alcohol.
- If your doctor prescribes a cream or ointment, use it exactly as prescribed. Call your doctor if you think you are having a problem with your medicine.
- Avoid strong soaps that contain fragrance.
- Do not use scented or colored toilet paper.
- Put ice or a cold pack on the area for 10 to 20 minutes at a time. Put a thin cloth between the ice and your skin.
- Use zinc oxide, petroleum jelly, or 1% hydrocortisone cream on the area. Do not use anesthetic products with "-caine" at the end of the name without talking with your doctor first. Some people may be allergic to these products.
- Keep a food diary of what you eat. Certain foods may irritate your anal area after a bowel movement.
- Wear cotton underwear. Avoid pantyhose or other tight clothes.
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