Anal Itching (Pruritus Ani): Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments

Anal itching is when the area around and at the edge of the anus becomes irritated and itchy. There are several reasons why anal itching could occur. These include diet, digestive issues, chemical irritants (like scented soap or creams), hemorrhoids (swollen veins around the anus), an infection such as a sexually transmitted infection (STI), a skin condition, or medication.

If anal itching is accompanied by a fever, bleeding, or a rash, it's advised to seek medical attention.

This article covers why anal itching occurs, how to treat anal itching, how to diagnose the causes of anal itching, and when or why anal itching might require visiting a healthcare professional.

Anal Itching and Other Symptoms

Anal itching is a symptom that can accompany other symptoms, depending on its cause. These might include:

• Lumps or warts
• Bleeding
• Loose stools
• Swelling
• Sores
• Skin irritation in other places on the body

Causes of Anal Itching

There are several possibilities for why anal itching might occur. They include the following factors.

Dietary Issues

Foods that cause gas or problems with digestion could cause anal itching. Some foods also cause excess mucus, which can also irritate the bottom.

The following foods and drinks could cause anal itching.

• Spicy foods
• Chocolate
• Citrus fruits
• Tomatoes
• Vitamin C tablets
• Tea or coffee
• Milk
• Soda
• Alcohol

Digestive Problems

The following digestive problems could cause anal itching:

• Diarrhea or incontinence: Loose or watery stools can stick to the opening of the anus, which can lead to anal itching.
• Gas: Gas can be a sign of gastrointestinal issues, which can cause anal itching.
• Low dietary fiber: Dietary fiber or fiber supplements can help solidify stools so your bottom stays cleaner and is less itchy.
• Constipation: Irritation can arise from either not passing stools regularly or not being able to completely empty the bowel.

Chemical or Physical Irritants

There are several irritants that could cause anal itching, including:

• Perfumes, such as scents in lotions or deodorant
• Dyes in soaps or toilet paper
• Tight clothing
• Rough towels or toilet paper
• Creams and ointments
• Feminine hygiene products
• Perfumes, such as scents in lotions
• Talcum powder
• Medicated soaps or wipes

Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins around the anus. They usually go away on their own, or they can be removed by a healthcare professional via surgery. They can be caused by:

• A diet low in fiber
• Digestive issues like diarrhea or constipation
• Straining with bowel movements
• Pregnancy
• Aging, which can result in weak muscles at the rectum
• Lifting heavy objects

Infections and Anal Itching

Anal itching can be a symptom for bacteria or viruses in or around the rectum. These include:

• Sexually transmitted infections (STIs): Several STIs, including gonorrhea or herpes, can cause anal itching.
• Yeast infections: While the human body produces yeast candida regularly, issues with the immune system can cause an overgrowth, which can lead to an itchy yeast infection.
• Eczema, dermatitis, or other skin conditions: Eczema is an autoimmune disorder that causes dry or itchy skin, and it, as well as other skin disorders, could also cause the anus to itch.
• Ringworm: This is a fungal skin infection that causes a circular rash on the skin.
• Parasites: Threadworms or pinworms are parasites that can be released via the anus. These parasites normally affect children.

Medication

Medications that could cause anal itching include:

• Ointments and wipes for the anal area
• Steroid creams
• Essential oils
• Antibiotics

When to Seek Medical Attention

If at-home remedies or over-the-counter creams do not heal anal itching within two to three weeks, medical attention is advised. Also, if the following symptoms occur, please see a healthcare professional:

• Anal bleeding
• A rash or other bumps around the anus
• Fever

Diagnosing Anal Itching

If anal itching doesn't heal at home, you should consider seeking a diagnosis from a healthcare provider. Your visit may include the following:

• Visually examining the area.
• Swabbing or scraping the anus area to get a sample for laboratory testing: This could help diagnose bacterial STIs or parasites.
• Testing for STIs: This might include a blood test or swabbing around the anus and testing the sample in a lab.
• Anoscopy or rigid proctosigmoidoscopy: This is when tubed instruments are used to view inside the anus for internal hemorrhoids.
• Allergy or patch testing: These tests can be used to identify the origin of a rash or whether a condition like eczema is present.

Summary

Anal itching can usually be treated at home. Remedies for an itchy bottom might include switching to softer hygiene products to clean the bottom or using water after releasing stools, wearing loser underwear and clothing, pat drying and avoiding rubbing the area, and dietary changes.

If anal itching doesn't heal within two to three weeks, seeking medical attention is advised. A healthcare professional might conduct tests for STIs, allergies, hemorrhoids, or infections to diagnose the origin of anal itching.