If You Neglect the Constantly Itchy ‘Hangmun’, It Will Thicken

Causes, Symptoms, and Solutions of 'Hangmun Soyangjeung' (Anal Pruritus)

[Asia Economy Reporter Jin-kyung Lee] Have you ever secretly scratched your anus because it was too itchy or suffered all night? In fact, even if you experience anal-related diseases, many people feel embarrassed and ashamed to talk about it, so they neglect it without going to the hospital, which often worsens the symptoms. The anus is an organ that plays an important role in defecation in our body. Therefore, if anal health is not properly managed, the pain and discomfort associated with diseases can cause great difficulties in daily life. Why is the precious anus itchy? Let's carefully examine the causes of itching and prevention methods.

If You Neglect the Constantly Itchy ‘Hangmun’, It Will Thicken

■ What is ‘Anal Pruritus’ - the disease causing anal itching?

Among various anal diseases, the symptom of continuous itching in the anus is called ‘anal pruritus’ or ‘anal pruritus syndrome’. Since a momentary itch relief makes the symptoms somewhat better, most people consider this itching a temporary phenomenon and often overlook the early stages of the disease. However, if this condition is left untreated for a long time, the skin around the anus thickens and swells, and it can become red and cracked like acute eczema, causing severe pain and discomfort. Therefore, it is advisable to visit a hospital as soon as possible.

■ How serious is the common disease ‘Anal Pruritus’?

Anal pruritus is a very common symptom experienced by about 45% of the world’s population, and men suffer from it 2 to 4 times more than women. Many nerves are distributed around the anus, making it a very sensitive area. It refers to symptoms of persistent unpleasant itching and burning sensation. The itching occurs constantly but is especially severe at night, causing people to scratch unconsciously while sleeping, which eventually leads to bleeding, thickening, and discoloration of the skin around the anus. The ongoing itching and burning pain cause severe discomfort and distress, which can also lead to mental stress. Ultimately, normal daily life becomes difficult, and the treatment period can be quite long, so it is important not to neglect the symptoms.

■ Symptoms and characteristics caused by anal pruritus?

- The main symptom is itching, which worsens more at night than during the day

- Discharge from around the anus and stickiness around the anus

- Itching worsens when sweating

- Frequent scratching causes swelling around the anus

- If symptoms persist for a long time, the skin of the anus thickens and turns white

■ Is it anal pruritus? Self-diagnosis

□ The area around the anus is unbearably itchy on a regular basis.

□ Itching worsens after defecation or at night.

□ The skin around the anus has turned redder than before.

□ Beyond redness, the skin has become thick like leather.

■ Classification of anal pruritus according to causes

▷ Secondary pruritus

Caused by anal diseases such as hemorrhoids, condyloma, colitis, etc.

Also occurs due to poor anal hygiene

▷ Idiopathic pruritus

The cause is unclear, and 70-80% of anal pruritus cases occur without association with specific diseases

■ Who is more prone to this?

- Overweight, obese individuals

- People who sweat a lot

- People who frequently wear tight underwear

■ Caused by various factors?

Although the causes are diverse, it is not easy to find the exact cause unless it is linked to a specific disease. However, it is said that the cause of pruritus can be identified through the patient’s usual lifestyle and eating habits. Since the anus is not well ventilated, if there is excessive hair or sweating around the anus, the area easily becomes moist, which can lead to diseases. Also, not cleaning properly after defecation or excessive washing with soap can actually cause diseases.

■ Causes in daily life?

- Sweating a lot or living for a long time in hot and humid environments

- Frequent loose stools due to excessive water intake, medication, or spicy foods

- Frequent consumption of caffeine-rich drinks such as cola, beer, chocolate, spicy food, coffee, black tea, etc.

- Not cleaning the anus properly after defecation, leaving residue that irritates the anus

- Severe irritation of the skin caused by harsh wiping of the anal area

- Disruption of intestinal condition due to side effects of antibiotics

- Presence of hemorrhoids, intestinal diseases, parasites (pinworms), fungal infections, or skin diseases (psoriasis, eczema, fistula)

- Irritation caused by fragrances or ingredients added to toilet paper, cleansers, powders, or soaps

- Allergic reactions caused by treatments for anal diseases such as hemorrhoids, fistulas, or fissures

- Wearing tight clothes that prevent sweat from drying, leaving the buttocks area damp for a long time

■ Treatment and solutions?

Treatment and solutions for anal pruritus vary depending on the cause. In secondary pruritus, treating the underlying disease naturally eliminates the itching. If caused by parasites (pinworms), taking antiparasitic medication twice can completely eradicate them. However, in idiopathic pruritus, avoiding substances or foods that cause itching and improving lifestyle and eating habits help alleviate symptoms.

▷ When cleaning the anal area, avoid using soap or cleansers and gently rinse with a shower

▷ Use soft toilet paper, wet wipes, or baby wipes after defecation

▷ Use eco-friendly toilet paper (non-fluorescent, unbleached, natural pulp) as much as possible

■ Is hospital treatment really necessary?

Most anal itching can be completely cured by dietary control and lifestyle improvement, but if the itching persists severely for a long time, it is essential to receive treatment at a specialized hospital. Usually, topical medication (ointment) is used first, and treatment is stopped when symptoms improve. If there is no improvement after more than a month of medication, nerve block around the anus is performed. This treatment can sufficiently improve the condition, so do not delay and visit a hospital.