What Causes Burning Sensation In Rectal Area?

Posted on Mon, 24 Feb 2014

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Mon, 24 Feb 2014 Answered on

Wed, 19 Mar 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : I asked if you had any suggestions regarding herpies. I have been taking valacyclovir 1000 mg daily for 5 months and have burning sensation in rectal area with no relief. Don't get any satisfied answers from myDR

Answered by Dr. Saul Weinreb (16 minutes later)

Brief Answer: Thanks for your question, I will do my best Detailed Answer: was your herpes a rectal outbreak? or was it a vaginal outbreak? I am wondering if you are sure that the rectal burning is due to herpes, or possibly something else. rectal burning is not a typical symptom of herpes. please let me know and we can try to figure this out.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D

Follow up: Dr. Saul Weinreb (20 minutes later)

No I had the small circle of blisters close to r upper but that became a rather nasty raw area close to rectal area. So far weeks of meds I haven't had much relief with burning. I'm rather new to computers so hope I don't loose your reply

Answered by Dr. Saul Weinreb (1 hour later)

Brief Answer: Thanks for the your question Detailed Answer: I am so sorry that you have been uncomfortable for so long. I am almost certain that the discomfort is not due to herpes. that is for several reasons. the main reason is that you have had the pain for much longer than herpes would last. herpes usually goes away after a few days, sometimes a week or two, but no longer than that. also, you have been taking meds for herpes and it hasn't helped. it is much more likely that it is due to something else. the most common is hemorrhoids, that can definitely cause burning and blisters like you describe, and it is more likely in the area that you describe. I would recommend that you try a medication like preparation H and see if that helps. if not, you may need to ask your doctor for a prescription steroid cream. I hope this helps, please let me know if you need any more information

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad