Fungi in the anus: symptoms and treatment

The overgrowth of the Candida albicans fungus can also lead to a fungal infection in the anal region, called an anal or rectal yeast infection. Although it is not very frequent, this condition is usually the result of genital candidiasis that has spread to the rear, affecting the skin of the anus and the rectum walls. For this reason, it is essential to treat fungal infections at the first symptoms, as specific antifungal drugs are required to prevent the infection from worsening and progressing to other areas. However, it can also result from other factors, as we will see below. In this FastlyHealarticle, we show in detail the symptoms and treatment of fungus in the anus.

Causes of fungus in the anus

The excessive growth of the Candida albicans fungus can also occur in the rectal region. The rectum walls are affected, which is where the symptoms of this fungal condition are usually evident. The rectum is also an ideal space for yeast proliferation to take place, as they find a moist, dark, and closed area in it.

Let’s see below, what are the factors that can cause anal or rectal candidiasis:

• I was having anal intercourse without using adequate protection.
• I have a fungal infection in the genitals that spreads to the rectal area. This is usually the most common cause.
• Have a weakened immune system: the immune system is responsible for keeping the levels of yeast in the body under control, but when the defenses are lowered, it is possible that these levels increase and, as a result, a fungal infection occurs.

In addition to the above causes, some risk factors can favor the development of fungal infection in the anus: pregnancy, diabetes, being overweight, poor hygiene habits, and the use of spermicides.

How to know if I have a fungus in the anus: symptoms

Anal or rectal candidiasis causes symptoms very similar to genital candidiasis, but they tend to be more annoying and intense in this area. In general, the most common symptoms of anus fungus are the following:

• Itching or itching in the anus.
• Stinging.
• Redness
• Inflammation.
• The skin around the anus is rough, rough, and scaly.
• Sometimes blisters with small purple spots appear.
• Injuries are produced by continuous scratching.
• Discomfort during bowel movements.

It is convenient to bear in mind that the symptoms can vary considerably from one person to another, as well as present with a pretty different intensity from one case to another.

Candidiasis in the anus: treatment

First of all, it is essential to see a doctor in case of presenting the above symptoms or suspecting that genital candidiasis may have spread to the rectal area. A medical diagnosis is necessary to establish the appropriate treatment.

To treat anus fungus, the following may be recommended based on the severity of symptoms and infection:

• The use of suppositories for anal fungi, which are antifungal, can stop the proliferation of yeasts and cure the infection in the area. These usually help clear the infection from inside and outside the rectum.
• Application of antifungal creams to the skin around the anus.
• We are taking antifungal medications by mouth.

In addition to the medical treatment indicated by the specialist, to promote the cure of candidiasis in the anus, it is essential to take into account the following recommendations:

• Keep the rectal area as less moist as possible. It is important to dry thoroughly after showering, change clothes quickly after exercising, and wash the site daily with mild soap and water that is not harsh or irritating.
• Avoid having anal intercourse until the infection is completely cured, as injuries to the area could get significantly worse.
• In the case of people with diabetes, they must keep their sugar levels under control.
• Avoid wearing very tight or tight clothing items.
• Take care of your diet and avoid eating foods rich in sugars. In addition, several ingredients have excellent properties to fight this condition; we discovered all of them in the article Foods to fight yeast infection.

Home remedies for fungus in the anus

As a complement, in treating anorectal candidiasis, you can also resort to some natural remedies that help relieve symptoms such as itching, stinging, redness, and inflammation. Among the treatments that may offer better results for those with this fungal infection are the following:

• Apple cider vinegar: balances the natural pH of the skin and fights these microorganisms. You should add 1 cup of apple cider vinegar to the bathwater and take a bath for about 20 minutes.
• Tea tree oil: It has potent antimicrobial and antifungal properties and reduces itching and inflammation. Add about ten drops of this essential oil to the warm bath water and soak for about 20 minutes.
• Garlic: it is an excellent natural antibiotic that helps heal fungus in the anus more quickly and prevent new infections. In addition to including it in the daily diet, it is possible to crush about three garlic cloves and add them to a container with water and then make a sitz bath with the preparation for about 10 minutes.
• Aloe vera: helps to regenerate damaged skin and relieve the symptoms of anogenital candidiasis. Apply a little aloe vera gel on the margins of the anus and leave for 10 to 15 minutes.

How to prevent anal or rectal yeast infection

• Use a condom in all sexual relations, whether vaginal or anal.
• Wash the anogenital area after having sexual intercourse.
• Always maintain good intimate hygiene.
• Avoid using personal hygiene products that contain chemicals, alcohol, fragrances, etc.
• Wear underwear made of natural fabrics, such as cotton, and avoid synthetic materials.
• Dry the anal area very well after bathing and prevent it from remaining wet after physical activity, as the accumulation of sweat could predispose to a new fungal infection.

This article is merely informative, at FastlyHeal .com we do not have the power to prescribe medical treatments or make any type of diagnosis. We invite you to see a doctor in the case of presenting any type of condition or discomfort.

If you want to read more articles similar to Fungi in the anus: symptoms and treatment , we recommend that you enter our category of Skin, hair and nails .

Alivia Nyhan

I am a Surgeon with a diploma in comprehensive ultrasound and surgical care residency, an area I am specializing in. During the exercise of my profession, I have realized the need for patients to know the diseases they suffer, and I can tell you that a large part of their complications is due to a lack of information. Being a health web writer allows me to transmit my experience, without borders, to all those readers eager for knowledge, educate them in the prevention of diseases and promote a healthy lifestyle.