Sign up for our Health Tip of the Day newsletter, and receive daily tips that will help you live your healthiest life.Thurmond RL, Kazerouni K, Chaplan SR, Greenspan AJ. Itchy skin is a common problem that can be hard to diagnose. There are many different factors to consider when choosing an anti-itch cream. He or she may refer you to a skin specialist (dermatologist) or a doctor who specializes in treating rectal and anal problems (proctologist).Here's some information to help you get ready for your appointment.For anal itching, some basic questions to ask your doctor include:Your doctor is likely to ask you a number of questions, such as:Cleanse the anal area gently immediately after bowel movements and dry thoroughly. You may also need a physical exam, including a digital rectal exam.If the cause of your itching isn't obvious or it doesn't respond to initial treatment, your doctor may refer you to a skin specialist (dermatologist). If an itch is related to an allergy, the topical cream can be absorbed in the skin and prevent histamine from causing the swelling and inflammation that can trigger pruritis.Topical antihistamines, such as used in Benadryl cream or Caladryl lotion, should be applied sparingly since their prolonged use may lead to the development of a hypersensitive reaction to oral versions of the drug. Lower-dose formulations can reduce the risk of side effects. TY Caladryl. The bottom line is that getting to the root cause of your itching is imperative, so be sure to speak to your doctor before purchasing an over-the-counter cream. While it may seem as if you're allergic to your AC, you're most likely just having a reaction to air contaminants being circulated by the unit. Acetazolamide (Diamox, Diamox Sequels) used to remove excess fluid in the body in people with congestive heart failure; to treat seizures and glaucoma; and the prevention and treatment of altitude sickness. ).Some health conditions may make you more susceptible to the side-effects of the drug. It's also wise to inquire about the cost of the topical agent you will be using. It's possible the cause of the itching may never be identified.Treatment of anal itching depends on the cause of the problem. Children are more prone to the adverse effects of topical steroids, so weaker topical steroids, like gels and sprays, should be used if possible. 7 Researchers actually have a name for symptoms of your health niggles being linked to your building – it is called the “sick building syndrome”! Ⓒ 2020 About, Inc. (Dotdash) — All rights reserved All rights reserved. Learn about the causes here. Soothing and thicker than calamine lotion, Caladry got the itching to stop and i could feel the lotion penetrate the skin and calm the allergy. Generic and over-the-counter topical steroids tend to be the least expensive. In addition, topical steroids, like Cutivate (fluticasone) and Elocon (mometasone furoate), may be safer for kids since less of the steroid is absorbed. Your doctor may be able to diagnose the cause of your itching simply by asking you questions about your symptoms, medical history and personal care habits. It may also help to apply a moistened or dry cotton ball to the outside of the anus.Often you won't need to see a doctor about anal itching. "Mayo," "Mayo Clinic," "MayoClinic.org," "Mayo Clinic Healthy Living," and the triple-shield Mayo Clinic logo are trademarks of Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. Acetazolamide may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide. Come summer, excessive air conditioning combined with sun exposure can bring on itchy and dry skin.

Daniel More, MD, is a board-certified allergist and clinical immunologist with a background in internal medicine. Anti-itch creams can also help treat itching caused by infections such as yeast infections, ringworm, and scabies.

It may include taking self-care measures such as nonprescription anti-itch cream or treating an infection or hemorrhoids. vitamins, herbal supplements, etc. 5. WebMD looks at the possible causes, from minor irritants to serious illnesses. In other words, an anti-itch cream will simply help soothe the itch or mask your symptoms but not cure the infection or the underlying cause. The drugs work by suppressing a chemical known as histamine which the immune system produces when confronted with an allergen (allergy-causing substances). It's important to understand that topical steroids should be used with caution and generally under the guidance of a doctor.Topical steroids are intended for short-term use and may cause problems if overused, including the thinning of the skin (skin atrophy), stretch marks ( If the itching persists even after taking self-care measures, mention it to your primary care doctor. Any use of this site constitutes your agreement to the Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy linked below. Anti-itch creams can also help treat itching caused by infections such as yeast infections, ringworm, and scabies. See your doctor if the itching persists.Prevention of anal itching mainly involves a careful washing routine that keeps the area clean, cool and dry, while avoiding further irritating the skin.If you already have anal itching, try these self-care measures:If you have fecal incontinence or diarrhea, clean the area around the anus with moist cotton balls or a squirt bottle of plain water. Topical anesthetics are typically used to numb areas of pain. Topical steroids are the best choice of anti-itch cream. If pinworms are suspected, your doctor may suggest doing a test for pinworms. Poison ivy is like having a screaming toddler, red faced absolutely frustrated and angry toddler waking you up in the middle of the night. Ⓒ 2020 About, Inc. (Dotdash) — All rights reservedHow to Safely Apply Topical Steroid Creams to Your FaceWhat to Know About Novocaine Allergy Symptoms and ReactionsIs It a True Sun Allergy or an Allergic Reaction to Sunscreen?Find out How Using Hydrocortisone Cream Can Help Itchy Skin RashesItching on Your Upper Arm Could Signal Nerve Compression in Your Spine Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Before using Medacomb Cream, inform your doctor about your current list of medications, over the counter products (e.g.