Anal eczema
Treatment of anal eczema
What is anal eczema?
Anal eczema is an inflammatory skin condition around the anus, usually associated with itching.
The skin may appear red and irritated and can burn, ooze or become flaky.
The skin may appear red and irritated and can burn, ooze or become flaky.
Anal eczema is not a condition on its own, but is usually the result of other causes, such as hemorrhoids, an anal fissure, excessive hygiene or allergic reactions.
For many patients, the symptoms are uncomfortable and can lead to a vicious cycle of itching, scratching and further skin irritation.
For many patients, the symptoms are uncomfortable and can lead to a vicious cycle of itching, scratching and further skin irritation.
Causes
Anal eczema can have many triggers.
Common causes include:
- Hemorrhoids or anal fissures that continuously irritate the skin
- Excessive hygiene, especially with perfumed products
- Moisture and friction (e.g. sweating, tight clothing or stool leakage)
- Allergies or contact reactions to creams, detergents or wet wipes
- Fungal infections or bacterial inflammation
Typical symptoms
- Itching, burning or moisture in the anal area
- Redness, flaking or small cracks in the skin
- Pain when sitting or during bowel movements
- Skin irritation caused by excessive cleaning
- (e.g. wet wipes or soaps)
Treatment
In our practice, anal eczema is treated by addressing the underlying cause and protecting the skin.
The aim is to calm irritated skin, reduce inflammation and prevent future irritation.
The aim is to calm irritated skin, reduce inflammation and prevent future irritation.
Our treatment includes:
- Identifying and eliminating the cause (e.g. hemorrhoids, fissures or irritating substances)
- Local treatment with anti-inflammatory or soothing creams
- Strengthening the skin barrier with nourishing, fragrance-free ointments
- Advice on hygiene and lifestyle habits
(less is often more!)
All treatments are performed on an outpatient basis, tailored individually and with minimal skin irritation.
Our goal
Our goal is for the skin in the anal area to calm down and fully regenerate.
With the right treatment, a little patience and consistent skin care, anal eczema can heal completely and remain symptom-free in the long term.
With the right treatment, a little patience and consistent skin care, anal eczema can heal completely and remain symptom-free in the long term.