Darrick Robles Anal itching is caused by skin irritation in the anal area. It is a relatively common condition, affecting approximately 5% of the population (mostly men). The itching often occurs at night and is made worse by scratching. In many cases, the itching resolves on its own within a few days or weeks and requires no further treatment. Numerous skin diseases first manifest themselves in the anal region and lead to chronic itching that can last for several months and prompts those affected to consult a doctor.
Symptoms of anal itching
Depending on the previous cause, the following side effects may be present in addition to the itching:
- redness
- discharge
- Burn
- Wet
- Pains
- Frequent urge to defecate
- Incomplete emptying of the bowel
- foreign body sensation
Causes of anal itching
The causes of anal itching are varied and may include the following:
- Poor hygiene (stool debris)
- Temporary stool irregularities (diarrhea or constipation)
- eating certain foods such as B. coffee, tomatoes, chocolate, citrus fruits, flaxseed, spicy food and alcohol
- Soap, perfume or damp toilet tissue can cause small skin injuries in the anal area and cause itching
- Hemorrhoids: Hemorrhoids increase moisture around the anus and cause skin irritation and itching.
- Anal fistula: An anal fistula is a passage that forms between the anal canal and the skin outside of the rectum. Fluid can leak from this duct, which can cause skin inflammation and itching.
- Various skin diseases such as B. psoriasis and perianal eczema
- fungal infections
- Parasitic infections: e.g. B. Pinworms, especially in children
- Sexually Transmitted Infections
- Certain medications: e.g. e.g. antibiotics
- Rare: Anal carcinoma
Diagnosis of anal itching
Standard diagnostics include a thorough medical history, which may include the following questions:
- When did the anus itching start?
- Is it itching in other parts of the body?
- Does itching get worse when you have a bowel movement?
- Are there any stool irregularities (e.g. diarrhea or constipation)?
- If itch-promoting foods such. E.g. tomatoes, alcohol or coffee?
- Are there any medications that are taken regularly?
- Are there pre-existing conditions such as B. Diabetes or Crohn’s disease?
- What are your hygiene practices?
In addition, the doctor examines the entire skin, including the mucous membranes around the anal and genital regions. Depending on the findings, further laboratory tests can be considered.
When to seek help for anal itching
You should consult a doctor if you:
- have a rash or skin irritation in the anal area
- detect blood in the stool
- have had itching in the anal area for a long time
You can do that yourself if you have an itchy anus
The following tips will help you to keep the skin around the anal area clean and dry:
- Avoid dry, hard toilet paper when going to the toilet. Use soft toilet paper or unscented baby wipes. Some patients find it helpful to clean the anal area under running water in the shower. The skin is then dabbed dry with a soft cloth.
- Avoid sweating in the anus area by wearing cotton underwear and avoiding tight-fitting clothing.
- During menstruation, you should use tampons instead of pads.
- Avoid foods that can cause very soft or very hard stools and skin irritation. Among them are e.g. B. alcohol, spicy food, tomatoes, caffeinated drinks and dairy products.
- Avoid sitting for long periods, especially on plastic chairs.
Treatment options for anal itching
In addition to what you can do yourself, over-the-counter water-repellent ointments can be applied to the skin around the anus after washing. If the itching is very severe, antihistamines can be administered after consultation with the doctor.
This is how Med-Healths can help with anal itching
What is the cause of your symptoms? What measures can you take to avoid anal itching in the future? What examinations should you have? Are there other effective therapy options that can relieve your symptoms? What complications can anal itching be associated with? These questions and others can be clarified with our doctors via video consultation. It is possible to upload photos of the problem area via the Med-Healths App. Our doctors can advise you on treatment, prevention and further action and, if necessary, issue you a prescription.
