Remedies for a sore bum from diarrhea
Here are some ways that older children, teenagers, and adults can soothe soreness caused by diarrhea.
When you have diarrhea, your anus may become inflamed from wiping more often than usual. Using extra-gentle toilet paper or wet wipes can help reduce friction and irritation.
Some wet wipes also have ingredients like witch hazel or aloe vera that may help soothe tender skin.
Witch hazel and aloe vera are often recommended to treat anus inflammation caused by hemorrhoids. Some people anecdotally report these ingredients helping reduce bum pain.
However, there’s not enough scientific evidence to back up these claims.
Toilet paper and wipes containing alcohol or fragrances can cause allergic reactions or irritation. If you’re going to the bathroom more often than usual, you might also be more sensitive to these products than you’d typically be.
Using toilet paper or wet wipes labeled “hypoallergenic” may help reduce skin irritation.
Repeatedly rubbing your anus with toilet paper can cause irritation, even if you’re using soft toilet paper. Using dabbing motions instead may help reduce friction.
A bidet is a popular bathroom fixture in Europe and Asia, but they’re less common in North America.
Bidets use a jet of water to clean your anus and may help reduce diarrhea irritation by reducing the amount of toilet paper you need to use.
People often find soaking in a warm (not hot) bath for about 10 to 20 minutes several times per day can help soothe pain.
For soothing anus pain caused by hemorrhoids, the National Health Service recommends having a sitz bath for about 15 minutes.
You can make a sitz bath by adding 1/2 cup baking soda or 1/4 cup salt to about 5 inches of water in a bathtub.
Ointments like Vaseline or petroleum jelly help create a protective barrier over inflamed skin and reduce redness, according to 2016 research. You can apply a small amount to your anus after going to the bathroom and cleaning yourself.
Creams containing zinc oxide or castor oil may also be helpful. Some are specifically designed to soothe your anus.
Wearing cotton underwear may help keep your bum dry. Bacteria and fungi thrive in moist environments, so keeping the area dry may reduce your chances of infection.
Likewise, wearing loose-fitting pants may increase airflow and reduce potentially uncomfortable rubbing.
Prolonged sitting can put pressure on your sore tissues, which may cause discomfort. It can also trap moisture that increases your risk of developing an infection.
If possible, try to break up long periods of sitting about every 20 to 30 minutes.
You may find that sitting on a cushion, such as a donut-shaped hemorrhoid pillow, relieves discomfort.
