My daughter who is 8 years old has a very itchy anus. skin seems red and a bit inflamed. what can help her? not sure if its worms. we do have dogs but no cats.

Itchy anus: Pinworms are a common cause of very itchy anus in young children. Spread her buttocks and observe for pinworms wiggling around. Check a few hours after bedtime or upon her awakening in the morning. The pediatrician can evaluate her and advise you further. Dogs and cats don't transmit pinworm infections.

Hydrocortisone cream: You can try applying over-the-counter cortisone cream(0.5 to 1%)to the area 3x/day for up to 7 days to help with the symptoms.The best time to check for worms(pinworms)is during the night.You can check the area with a light while she is asleep to see if there are pinworms;they look like small pieces of white thread that are moving.If you see them or if it is not improving,call her doctor.