Pruritus Ani
Overview
Also commonly known as itchy bottom
Characterised by the constant need to scratch of the skin surrounding the anus
Its a symptom rather than a condition
3 Causes
- Bacterial infections – Streptococcus alpha (skin) and beta hemolytic (digestive system & vagina)
- Skin condition – Atopic Eczema (red, dry skin and flaky skin)
- Hemorrhoids – swelling that contains enlarge blood vessels around and inside the anus
Irritants
Heat, stress, anxiety, moisture, woolen clothing/blanket and soiling
Statistics
- Affects approximately 5% of the population
- Occurs most common in men
- Seen more often between 40 – 70 years of age