What should I do if hemorrhoids are always itchy?

Generally, persistent itching caused by hemorrhoids may be due to poor local hygiene, clothing friction, perianal eczema, infected hemorrhoids, or fungal infection of the perianal skin. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and then improve symptoms under a doctor's guidance through general measures, medications, etc. Specific causes are analyzed as follows:

1. Poor local hygiene: Residual sweat, secretions, and feces around the anus can irritate the skin and cause itching. Wash the anal area with warm water twice daily, gently wipe after bowel movements (avoid vigorous rubbing), and pat dry with a clean soft cloth afterward to keep the area dry.

2. Clothing friction: Wearing tight synthetic underwear can repeatedly rub against hemorrhoids and perianal skin, worsening itching. Switch to loose, breathable cotton underwear, wash and change it frequently, and avoid overly tight garments that continuously irritate the anal region.

3. Perianal eczema: Secretions from hemorrhoids may irritate the surrounding skin, triggering allergic inflammation and eczema, accompanied by papules and exudation. Apply calamine lotion, hydrocortisone butyrate cream, or desonide cream as directed by a physician to relieve itching.

4. Hemorrhoids with secondary infection: Bacterial invasion following damage to hemorrhoidal tissue can lead to infection, causing inflammation and itching. Perform sitz baths with potassium permanganate solution after bowel movements, and apply mupirocin ointment, fusidic acid cream, or compound polymyxin B ointment as prescribed to control infection.

5. Fungal infection of perianal skin: The warm, moist environment around the anus is conducive to fungal growth, leading to infection and itching, often accompanied by white scales. Use antifungal agents such as miconazole nitrate cream, clotrimazole cream, or terbinafine hydrochloride cream as directed by a healthcare provider to inhibit fungal proliferation.

In daily life, avoid consuming spicy and irritating foods such as chili peppers and Sichuan pepper to reduce irritation to the perianal skin. Refrain from scratching the affected area to prevent skin breaks and worsening infection. Eat more fiber-rich foods like celery and bananas to maintain regular bowel movements and reduce irritation to hemorrhoids.