Itching and burning in the anal area can be experienced by patients suffering from both internal and external hemorrhoids. In external hemorrhoids, it is easier to determine the cause of itching since the affected area is located near the sensitive band of nerves. Sometimes the main cause of itching can also be due to internal hemorrhoids. This condition actually triggers the itching and burning feeling once they become inflamed. The inflammation can occur in any part of our body and there is a tendency that blood vessels will swell up, lymph fluid will fill and swell intercellular spaces and immune cells will launch at the affected area to cure the problem. But if the tissue is excessively irritated by anything such as abrasion and bacterial attack, the inflammation is usually the body’s first line of defense.

Aside from creating an unfavorable environment for the bacterial or viral invader, the inflammation will also alert the brain that something is not right and damage is imminent. The inflammation in the affected area will however warn us that a certain part in the body needs attention hence prevent the condition from getting worse. And the good thing is there are now various medications in the market that can cure inflammation especially those caused by hemorrhoids.

Many hemorrhoidal creams now contain anesthetic that will ease the pain caused by external hemorrhoid. But if the root problem is brought by internal hemorrhoids, ibuprofen tablets or capsules are ideal since they serve as painkiller and anti-inflammatory at the same time.

Itching can also be caused by the irritation of the mucus membrane lining in the anal canal producing extra mucus in order to lubricate the area. The mucus escapes the anal sphincter and gets into the skin and dries there. The drying of the mucus will ultimately irritate the area. Also, the inflamed internal hemorrhoids affects the surrounding blood vessels hence cause itching and burning as more blood flows faster hence cause swelling in the entire area. And lastly, large internal hemorrhoids can cause low-grade fecal incontinence, which can also be the cause of itching and burning sensation.

In the case of external hemorrhoids, the itching and burning is caused by too much scratching or scrubbing the area once the inflammation hurts. Several glands that produce oils within the skin are useful in cleaning and lubricating the area. However, scratching and scrubbing will cause the natural oils to be stripped away. And as a result, it will make us prone to surface infections which can make the condition worse.

Sitz-baths in warm, plain water, is the ideal solution to get rid of itching and burning around the anal area. A soothing cream that contains cocoa butter or other similar moisturizer can also be a good alternative. It is also advisable that you gently pat the area with medicated pad or plain, soft moistened toilet paper and wear loose fitting cotton underwear. But if your hemorrhoid symptoms do not get better in a week, you need to see your trusted doctor.

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