Anal itching is a common issue that can be intense, embarrassing, and uncomfortable. In scientific terms, it is also known as pruritus ani. Anal itching may be due to ongoing diarrhea, hemorrhoids, or infections. Another cause may be skin inflammation around the anal region, which is also known as dermatitis. If you are suffering from anal itching and even proper skin care is not helping you, talk to your healthcare provider.

What is anal itching?
Anal itching is a condition in which your perianal area is affected. The skin irritation becomes worse at night or when a bowel movement triggers. Anal itching is caused due to allergies, poor anal hygiene, certain foods and drinks, and other health conditions. Some common treatments include ointments, creams, and home remedies.

Types of anal itching
The two main kinds of anal itching include-

• Primary pruritis ani- There is no obvious cause for this kind of anal itching, though it is the most common type.
• Secondary pruritis ani- This type of itching is caused due to different reasons, like systemic diseases, infections, some dermatological conditions, and contact dermatitis.

Who is most affected by anal itching?
It can affect anyone, but there is some section of people who are more likely to get an itchy anus. They are-

• People between the ages of 40 and 70
• A male

What are the symptoms of anal itching?
Symptoms of anal itching can include:

• Inflammation
• Intense itching
• Irritation, scratches, and thick skin around the anus
• Soreness and a burning sensation at the anal opening

The irritation caused due to this problem can be more persistent or short-lived, depending upon the cause. Anal itching becomes worse during bedtime or in humid weather. Health care is not needed most times, but you should consult a doctor if-

• Anal itching is persistent, and your anal area seems infected
• When you are suffering from anal bleeding
• You are unable to judge the real reason behind a constant itch

What are the causes of anal itching?
The skin around your perianal area is soft and sensitive. Sometimes, the powders, soaps, lotions, creams, and ointments you use can cause an allergic reaction. If you wipe your skin with rough toilet paper or use hot water to clean the area, you are more likely to get affected. It is important that you wash your anal region properly after defecation. The perianal area itches more when the folds of your anus have any remains. The frequency of passing stool also has a great role in anal itching. Here are some possible causes –

• Infections
  Anal itching can be due to an infection with yeast or pinworm. Sexually transmitted infections are also a reason. The fungus causes swelling, discoloration, small cuts, and cracks in your skin. Pinworms are tiny white worms that are more like parasites and can be found in the rectum and intestines of infected people.
• Irritants
  Your skin might get irritated due to fecal incontinence and long-term diarrhea. You might be using some skin care products that aggravate the irritation. So, you should not use harsh soaps or wipe the area too hard.
• Skin issue
  Sometimes anal itching is caused due to dry skin, psoriasis, or contact dermatitis.
• Some other healthcare issues
  It can be diabetes, hemorrhoids, and thyroid.
• Anal fissures
  These can tear the lining of your anus.
• HPV and genital warts
  These viruses affect your genitals, anus, and rectum.

What you eat and drink can also cause anal itching. You should avoid more dairy products, acidic foods, carbonated drinks, and caffeinated beverages. Also, avoid wearing tight underwear because it can trap heat and moisture. This can make your itching worse.

Treatment for anal itching
Treatment of anal itching depends upon the cause of the issue. It can include self-care methods like using a good anti-itch cream or treating fecal incontinence or an infection. If the symptoms worsen at night, you might be asked to take an oral antihistamine. This can help you get relief until an anti-itch cream shows effect. If you take proper care of yourself, you can get relief from anal itching. Contact a healthcare provider if the irritation lasts.

Anal itching seems like an unpleasant condition that may become unbearable, and you can’t focus on anything else. With proper treatment, gentle care, and hygiene, you can get rid of the irritation. You will notice the symptoms clear up within one to three weeks. If your itchy anus doesn’t improve with home remedies, you can call your healthcare provider right away.