Itchy anus, redness and burning - these symptoms are all too often wrongly attributed to hemorrhoids. Sometimes a fungal infection of the anus can be the cause of such pain. Fungus on the anus is a condition that affects many people, although very few people talk about it. We'll tell you what the causes and symptoms of anal fungus are and how you can get rid of the symptoms.
Table of contents
1. what are the causes of anal fungus?
Fungus on the anus is usually caused by the yeast fungus, which is very often found on mucous membranes or healthy skin, but also multiplies massively in moist areas of the body such as the anus. The possible causes are
- a weakened immune system
- other illnesses
- prolonged use of antibiotics
- drug therapy with cortisone
- immunosuppressants
- chemotherapeutic agents
- frequent sweating and dampness
- poor diet
- Severe tissue damage due to e.g. bacterial infections or mechanical injuries
2 How common is this type of infection?
Fungus on the anus usually occurs in people between the ages of 30 and 50. According to some statistics, up to five percent of the population are affected by this condition. Men are much more likely to suffer from the annoying itch. The problem with such statistics, however, is that anal fungus is a taboo subject. Most people hide the fact that they have this problem out of shame. This leads to the conclusion that many more people suffer from fungal infections of the anus.
3. how do I recognize fungus on the anus?
Most people carry fungi in their intestines, but these do not usually cause any symptoms. However, the microorganisms, usually Candida albicans, can multiply unhindered due to various causes and cause fungus on the anus. The fungus in the intestine makes itself felt through flatulence. If it reaches the anus, itching also begins. In women, the fungus can very often spread from the anus to the vagina, causing vaginal fungus. Intestinal fungal infections also have the following symptoms:
- constipation
- diarrhea
- Alternating constipation and diarrhea
- Stool with a sticky consistency
- Intestinal cramps
- tiredness
- Headaches
- Alcohol intolerance
- Cravings for sweets
4. useful tips for fungus on the anus
Fungus on the anus and the resulting itching can significantly restrict your everyday life and you should therefore do something about it as soon as possible. But before you see a doctor, you can also try certain measures at home. These depend on the cause of the fungus on the anus. The following tips could help you to alleviate the symptoms:
- Drink plenty of fluids: You should drink at least 1.5 to 2 liters of liquid per day to ensure regular and soft bowel movements. Water or unsweetened tea are best.
- Eat a diet rich in fiber: Improper diet can also cause the fungus to multiply in the intestines and migrate to the anus. You may be able to alleviate the symptoms with high-fiber foods such as fruit, vegetables and cereals.
- Hygiene: Poor or excessive hygiene has a negative effect on the fungus in the anus. It is best to wash the anal area with clean water after every bowel movement and then gently dry the skin. You should avoid washing lotions with fragrances and hard toilet paper to protect the anus from harmful and irritating ingredients. Instead, you can use pH-neutral wash lotions that are gentle on the skin.
- Care: Anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving natural ingredients in certain products can help your skin to regenerate and prevent the penetration of bacteria. Such products include the HemoCalm Oil Repair & Protect Spray from Casida (pharmacy, PZN: 10086675), which has proven to be very helpful for itching and other problems in the anal area.
- Do not scratch: Even if the fungus on the anus causes itching, no matter how severe, you should avoid scratching it if possible. This could damage the skin and cause additional irritation.
5 When should I see a doctor?
If the itching in the anus only occurs for a short time and soon disappears on its own, you don't necessarily need to see a doctor. The cause of short-lasting itching can be various foods that contain questionable ingredients. Eating such foods can cause allergic reactions and skin irritations such as itching in the anal region. Such foods or drinks include spicy and salty foods, caffeine and even dairy products. However, if the itching persists over a longer period of time and you have not been able to treat the fungus on your anus with home remedies, you should definitely consult a doctor. Otherwise, your quality of life will be significantly impaired by the constant symptoms of anal fungus. But that's not the only reason to see a doctor, because fungus in the intestines can lead to other illnesses if left untreated.
Important note / disclaimer: As pharmacists, we share our pharmaceutical expertise and wealth of naturopathic experience in the Casida guide. An individual diagnosis and consultation is necessary in every case. Therefore, this offer cannot replace medical advice. It is not intended to treat, cure or prevent any disease. It is not a substitute for medication or other treatments prescribed by a doctor.
