Two thirds of blokes suffer from 'pruritus ani' bumhole issue but won't get it checked out
It’s a pretty common (and let’s be honest, often pretty fair) stereotype that a lot of blokes will put off going to the doctors.
But an expert is urging blokes dealing with the rather intimate issue of pruritus ani in particular to, well, get on with it. That’s the term used to describe the rather annoying continued itch or irritation around your anus.
The pharmacist reckons loads of men are ‘delaying getting advice’ for the health issue due to being embarrassed about what’s going on with what’s behind them.
And look it’s not exactly a fun activity to talk about your below the waist region with a GP but it could be crucial. Plus, you’re not going to be the only one.
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A study conducted by Anusol suggested that 61 percent of blokes in the UK have experienced it.
Pruritus ani explained
The NHS explains that the 'main symptom is an urge to scratch your bottom, which might be difficult to resist', adding: "This can lead to skin damage and possible infection in that area."
Ian Budd, a lead prescribing pharmacist at Chemist4U, said that it's important to note that this is 'a symptom, not a condition in itself'.
"The main sign is itching, which can range from mild to quite intense, and may be worse at night," he told Metro.
"Some people also experience soreness, redness or irritated skin, especially if there’s been a lot of scratching."
Men are four times more likely than women to experience it, and it mostly affects men between the ages of 40 and 70.
What can cause pruritus ani?
Pruritus ani can be attributed to a variety of things, including skin conditions such as dermatitis or psoriasis, infections, haemorrhoids, fissures or fungal infections.
Cleveland Clinic adds that using rough toilet paper could be a contributing factor, so maybe splash out on the fancy loo roll next time.
Budd also pointed out that digestive issues can also trigger it, as can certain foods and drinks.
That could include dairy products, fizzy drinks, caffeine and acidic and spicy foods.
But the NHS says that 90 percent of cases are caused by 'a minor leakage (soiling) from the bottom', explaining: "If small amounts of poo (stool) or liquid mucus leak from the bottom, this can irritate the delicate skin around this area."
So basically, make sure you're wiping thoroughly.
How can pruritus ani be treated?
Your doctor can help you tackle pruritus ani, even if it can be a bit tricky to treat.
But the first step is having the courage to share your concerns with a health practitioner, as Budd explained that doing this will help you find the source of your itchy bottom.
"It can sometimes be overlooked because people tend to focus on the itch itself rather than the underlying cause," he said. "There can also be a degree of embarrassment which means people may delay getting advice."
The survey conducted by Anusol found that 61 percent of blokes in the UK have experienced pruritus ani, but 26 percent didn't get any treatment for it because they felt too awkward.
As well as this, 39 percent of the men who took part in the poll said they usually don’t do anything to manage their symptoms.
Budd says that the treatment you receive will depend on the underlying cause of your pruritus ani, but 'soothing treatments' such as barrier creams or mild topical products can 'help relieve irritation and protect your skin'.
The pharmacist said figuring out the source of why your bottom is itching is essential.
"Reducing your risk is really about managing the factors that can trigger irritation or underlying issues," Budd said, while sharing some advice for sufferers.
He suggested wearing loose-fitting underwear, avoiding food and drinks that can trigger it, and keeping your anus clean and dry.
Olivia Burke