How Is Anal Itching Usually Treated?
There are a number of options available for treating anal itching if and when it occurs. First and foremost, the most appropriate way of treating an occurrence is via the topical route - ie. the application of medicine in a "cream" form. This is applied directly to the affected area, and hence provides the greatest amount of relief, aimed at the exact location where the issue is being experienced.
As well as treating the feeling of anal itching, the underlying cause of the symptom needs to be addressed rapidly - to ensure that a repeat of the current situation does not happen in the future. Obviously, treating the underlying condition will be dependent on what that condition actually is, and hence what the applicable treatment is for it.
For a moment (ie. in the rest of this article), let's forget about the reason why anal itching is occurring (although this is an extremely important thing to figure out), and simply focus on the problem of anal itching itself.
Over The Counter Products
Unfortunately, due to the restrictions on over-the-counter products, there is a very limited selection of effective products out there to combat anal itching. The ones which are available usually work by removing excess moisture from the area, and ensuring that the area does not get infected. In most cases, this will not resolve the issue of scratching.
Therefore, all in all, over the counter products sold at the pharmacy are not very effective in relieving the problems of anal itching if and when they develop instantly.
A Harsher Approach
Just as over the counter products were ineffective, doctor prescribed products may be the total opposite of that - too aggressive. Usually, these products which are readily prescribed to patients experiencing anal itching, contain powerful anaesthetics - which may seem to be a great idea on the surface of things - but underneath are slightly shadier.
The problem with these is that once again, unless your doctor prescribed you something in addition to the anaesthetic, you will probably continue to suffer from anal itching long after you stop using the prescription product.
Therefore, to ensure that you get the best treatment for the symptoms and the underlying issues - a treatment which tackles both issues at one, or a course of multiple treatments at the same time is the best solution.