Anal itching is a skin condition that affects the anal area and may worsen at night or after defecation. Improper hygiene of the anus, sensitivity, consumption of certain foods and drinks, and contracting some diseases are possible causes of this complication. This itching is usually treated with over-the-counter ointments and home remedies, but you should see a doctor if it does not improve. Please continue reading to learn more about the cause of this condition, its symptoms, and how to treat it.
What is anal itching?
Itching of the anus is a skin disease that causes itching in the anus or perineum. The scientific name of this condition is “pruritis ani,” which causes irritation and itching around and around the anus. Some of the factors that cause this problem are:
- diet;
- digestive problems ;
- chemical irritants (such as scented soaps or creams);
- Hemorrhoids or hemorrhoids (inflammation of the veins around the anus);
- Some infections.
Anyone can suffer from anal itching, but men between 40 and 70 usually suffer. About 1 to 5% of the population suffer from this condition. Itching in the anus causes an uncontrollable itching sensation, which means that scratching the area does not relieve the feeling. Rubbing the anus may even aggravate the irritation and make the itching worse. The skin of this area is sensitive, and the nails have a firmer texture than the skin; Because of this, scratching can damage the skin or cause infection. If you continue to irritate the skin of the anal area, it may lead to severe discomfort, pain, and burning.
Anal itching symptoms
- itching;
- Stimulation;
- burning;
- the pain;
- scratch
- Thickening or leathery skin around the anus.
This condition may cause symptoms in other parts of the body as well, such as:
- bumps or warts;
- bleeding;
- loose stools;
- inflammation;
- wound;
- Skin irritation in other areas of the body.
Causes of anal itching
1. diet
Foods that cause bloating or digestive problems may also cause anal itching. Some foods cause excessive production of mucus, which irritates the anus. Some of these foods include:
- Spicy foods;
- Chocolate;
- Citrus;
- tomato;
- vitamin C tablets ;
- tea or coffee;
- Lion;
- soda;
- alcohol
2. Digestive problems
- Diarrhea: loose or watery stool can stick to the anal valve and cause itching.
- Flatulence: Passing gas can cause digestive problems and anal itching.
- Low-fiber diet: Fiber from the diet or fiber supplements may cause hard stools. In this case, the anus stays cleaner and less itchy.
- Constipation: Perhaps the irritation is caused by not regularly passing stool or not completely emptying the bowels.
3. Chemical and physical stimuli
Various triggers may cause anal itching, including:
- Fragrances (such as those found in lotions or body sprays);
- colors used in soap and toilet paper;
- tight clothes;
- Rough toilet paper or towel;
- creams and ointments;
- feminine hygiene products;
- talcum powder;
- Medicated soaps and wet wipes.
4. Hemorrhoids or hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoid means inflammation of the veins around the anus. This complication usually disappears, or the doctor treats it with surgery. Causes of hemorrhoids include:
- low-fiber diet;
- digestive problems such as diarrhea or constipation;
- straining during defecation;
- pregnancy ;
- Aging that causes weakness of the muscles of the anus;
- Lifting heavy objects.
5. Taking some medications
These medications may cause anal itching:
- Ointments and wet wipes are used in the anal area;
- steroid creams;
- essential oils;
- Antibiotics.
6. Fungal infection of the vagina
A type of fungus called Candida can cause yeast infection. Although the human body naturally produces Candida, problems with the immune system can cause this fungus to overgrow, leading to infection and itching. Yeast infections can start in the vagina or anus. They can also cause discoloration, inflammation, minor cuts, or cracks in the skin of that area.
7. Anal fissure
Anal fissure means tears in the anal membrane or anal canal. Damage to this area is one of the leading causes of anal fissures. This damage can be caused by constipation, straining during bowel movements, and long periods of diarrhea.
8. Genital Warts
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a relatively common virus that affects the genitals and anus. This virus can cause genital warts, which is a sexually transmitted disease. This disease causes bumps and small warts around the genital area and anus. Warts may cause slight bleeding, irritation, and a burning sensation.
9. worms
Worms are small white or gray worms with a parasitic life; they depend on other living organisms (the host) for growth and reproduction. Parasites cause harm to their host. Worms live in the intestines and anus of infected people. These worms lay their eggs around the anus at night, which causes itching. Ringworm can also cause a circular rash.
10. Skin disease
Eczema, dermatitis, and other skin diseases can cause anal itching. Eczema is an autoimmune disease that causes dryness and itching of the skin and, like other skin diseases, also leads to itching in the anus.
How is anal itching diagnosed?
The doctor examines the person to determine the possible causes of anal itchings, such as skin disease or complications. The doctor may look at the anal area for skin changes, skin texture, rashes, and sores and ask these questions:
- Do you take any medication?
- How often do you defecate?
- What is the surface of your stool?
- What foods do you eat?
- What kind of drinks do you drink?
- What detergent do you use in the bathroom?
- What type of toilet paper do you use?
- Do you usually wear underwear or tight pants?
- Are you allergic to food?
A glue test may be used to detect worms in children. Since worms are active at night, you should stick a small piece of glue near the child’s anus before sleeping. After the child wakes up, remove the tape and check whether the worm egg is attached to it or not. If your doctor cannot determine or treat the cause of anal itching, you may be referred to a dermatologist.
Anal itching treatment
The treatment of anal itching first focuses on proper hygiene of the anal area. You should also thoroughly clean the anus after defecation, keep this area dry and use non-medicated talcum powder. If an underlying condition causes itching, you should seek treatment. In the following, we have reviewed the possible treatments.
1. Ointment and cream
Over-the-counter hydrocortisone is made by combining a corticosteroid with a numbing pain reliever, and you should apply it to the affected area 2 to 3 times a day. Research shows topical capsaicin cream is an excellent alternative to corticosteroids for chronic anal itching.
2. Antibiotics and antifungal drugs
If the doctor determines that an infection causes the itching, he may prescribe antibiotics or antifungal medication.
3. Methylene blue injection (anal tattoo)
Your doctor may treat anal itching with methylene blue injections if other treatments don’t work. This substance is injected under the skin of the anus and relieves pain and itching by eliminating the nerves of the affected area.
Home remedies for anal itching
1. Use unscented and dye-free toilet paper
Some toilet paper contains dyes and fragrances that can irritate the skin. When shopping, look for products labeled “dye-free,” “fragrance-free,” “hypoallergenic,” or “contains only natural ingredients.”
2. Avoid strong soaps, perfumes, and deodorants
Strong soaps, perfumes, body fresheners, allergens, or chemical irritants can worsen symptoms.
3. Wear cotton underwear
Cotton underwear absorbs moisture. Make sure it’s the right size and change it regularly. Use fragrance-free detergents to wash your underwear.
4. Avoid certain foods and drinks
Dairy products, carbonated beverages, caffeinated beverages, and spicy or acidic foods can cause anal itching. Of course, you should not stop all these foods and drinks suddenly. Avoid each one several times to determine which food or drink makes your anus itch.
Faster prevention and treatment methods
Changing some habits can prevent anal itching or heal it faster, including:
- Keep the anal area clean and dry, especially after defecation.
- Use softer products like toilet paper and wet wipes to clean the area.
- It is better to wash the site instead of using a tissue.
- After showering and cleansing the body, dry the anus with gentle strokes.
- Choose comfortable and loose clothes and underwear.
- Increase your intake of fiber or fiber supplements.
- Reduce caffeine and alcohol consumption.
- Resist the temptation to scratch this area.
- Use products that absorb moisture, such as cornstarch, non-medicated talcum powder, and cotton.
When should we see a doctor?
If home remedies and over-the-counter ointments do not improve anal itching after 2 or 3 weeks, it is better to see a doctor. Also, the occurrence of these symptoms requires a doctor’s examination:
- rectal bleeding;
- rash or other bumps around the anus;
- Fever.
final word
Anal itching is unpleasant, annoying, and embarrassing, and it can be so unbearable that it disrupts your life. Various factors cause this complication; in most cases, they are signs of some disease. Of course, this complication is treatable. Proper hygiene, medications, and gentle care can resolve this condition. If the symptoms do not disappear after treatment, it is better to see a doctor immediately.
Warning! This article is only for educational purposes; to use it, it is necessary to consult a doctor or specialist.
