When the hemorrhoidal cushions of the anal canal swell, it is known as hemorrhoids. Also known as piles, you can classify them as internal or external hemorrhoids. Internal hemorrhoid appears above the dentate line inside the anus, whereas external hemorrhoid occurs below it. These swollen veins in the lower part of one’s rectum might cause discomfort, like pruritus ani or an itchy anus. So if you’re wondering if hemorrhoids itch, keep reading to know if they do or not.
Why Do Hemorrhoids Itch?
Even though hemorrhoids usually don’t last long, they might bring discomfort. Yes, hemorrhoids do itch. Itching can occur due to external hemorrhoids. Moreover, when internal hemorrhoids prolapse, i.e., come out of the anus, they might tingle. The itching might be triggered due to:
1. An Inflammatory Reaction
An inflammatory reaction can occur with hemorrhoids. When inflammation occurs, it can cause swelling as well. Consequently, you might have to endure symptoms like itching. You can consult the doctor for inflammation and hemorrhoid treatment, which might help suppress the symptoms too.
2. Rubbing
Rubbing toilet paper, washcloths, skin, clothing, and more can irritate external hemorrhoids. Furthermore, they can develop blood clots that might leave a skin tag after healing. The skin tag can become irritated or start to itch. Not only this, but these tags trap feces particles, making it challenging to maintain proper hygiene.
When you wipe, clean, or scratch the affected area, you hinder the healing of the hemorrhoids by worsening the symptoms. If the hemorrhoids do itch, it is better to wait a few minutes until it subsides rather than scratching.
3. Feces
The irritation can occur due to diarrhea, whereas constipation might result in straining that increases hemorrhoid symptoms. In addition, fecal leakage could be caused by hemorrhoids, irritating the skin near the anus.
4. Mucus Production
Hemorrhoids might cause symptoms like mucus production in the anus. The mucus, like stool, could leak accidentally. As a result, it can cause itching.
How to Stop Hemorrhoid Itching?
Now that you know why hemorrhoids itch, you might be wondering how to stop the itching. Apart from treating the issue, you can try these to reduce the symptoms until the hemorrhoids shrink:
- Good Hygiene: Which includes gently cleaning the anal area after a bowel movement, using a wet cloth, or an unscented baby wipe. Additionally, ensure that the site remains dry.
- Don’t Use Scented Soaps: as they can irritate sensitive skin.
- Take a Sitz Bath: Fill a small plastic tube with warm water, fit it over the toilet, and use it for bathing your buttocks and hips. You can also fill a regular bathtub with some water. Try 20-minute sessions of a sitz bath after each bowel movement. Remember to dry off afterward gently.
- Rinse with Bidet: after a bowel movement. You can also use a handheld detachable showerhead.
- Numbing Creams: You can consult the doctor for ointments or creams to numb the area.
- Topical Creams & Ointments: your doctor can recommend some to protect the skin from irritation and relieve the symptoms.
What Else Can Cause Anal Itching?
Anal itching is not always due to hemorrhoids. It might include, but Is not limited to:
- Infections
- Topical Irritants
- Hypersensitivity
- Skin Conditions
- Cancer
- Poor Hygiene
- Sweat Buildup
What Should I Do?
If you have hemorrhoids, they do itch and might be the cause of your discomfort. You can visit our Gastroenterology team to get treated for your condition. Dial (281) 357 1977 to get started on your recovery.