The primary method for stopping worm-related itching at night involves good hygiene and potentially topical treatments.
Addressing the Itch
-
Hygiene: The most important step is washing the skin around the anus with warm water. This should be done gently.
-
Topical Cream (if needed): If the itching is severe, a 1% hydrocortisone cream (like Cortaid) can be applied to the affected area. Use it sparingly and only twice a day for one or two days. Prolonged use of hydrocortisone cream can have side effects, so stick to the recommended duration.
Important Considerations
-
Why at Night? Worm itching tends to be worse at night because the female pinworm crawls to the anal area to lay her eggs, which causes the itching sensation.
-
Don't Scratch: As tempting as it is, avoid scratching. Scratching can irritate the skin further and can also spread the eggs to your hands and other surfaces, leading to reinfection or spreading the worms to others.
-
Treat the Underlying Cause: The itching is a symptom of a worm infection. You will likely need medication prescribed by a doctor to eliminate the worms altogether. These medications are usually available over the counter, but consulting a doctor is always recommended, especially for children or pregnant women.
-
Wash Bedding and Clothes: Thoroughly wash all bedding, towels, and clothes (especially underwear) in hot water and dry them on high heat to kill any eggs that may be present.
-
Handwashing: Frequent and thorough handwashing, especially after using the toilet and before meals, is crucial to prevent reinfection and spread.
-
Consult a Doctor: If the itching persists or worsens despite these measures, consult a doctor. They can confirm the diagnosis, prescribe appropriate medication (like mebendazole or pyrantel pamoate), and rule out other potential causes of anal itching.
