Anal itching, also termed pruritus ani, is a common dermatological(skin) condition that can cause embarrassment & discomfort. This medical condition can be characterized by intense itching around your anal areas, sometimes accompanied by soreness, redness, and a burning sensation. Most of the time, it is not a severe medical issue; however, it may affect the quality of life in certain people and cause discomfort.
Skin irritation, infections, and dietary infections are potential causes of anal itching. It affects people differently. Some people are more prone to develop anal itching due to certain medical conditions or medications they are taking. Usually, 1-5% of the population suffers from it, out of which assigned males at birth and people between 40 to 70 years are its primary victims. If you are among the ones, stop worrying, as various treatments are available to alleviate anal itching symptoms, ranging from changes in your lifestyle to over-the-counter medication.
Types of Anal Itching
Idiopathic Anal Itching: It is the primary and most common type of anal itching. However, there are no apparent causes behind it.
Secondary Anal Itching: Its underlying causes include systematic diseases, infections, and dermatological conditions like contact dermatitis.
Symptoms of Anal Itching
The following are the symptoms of anal itching:
- Itching
- Irritation
- Burning
- Soreness
- Excoriations(Scratches)
- Thick or leathery skin on or around your anus (perianal area)
Causes
Anal itching can stem from multiple causes, including skin irritation from scented soaps, powders, lotions, creams, or ointments, which can trigger an allergic reaction.
Using washcloths, hot water, or rough toilet paper to clean your anal area may lead to skin irritation. In addition, it is necessary to wipe the anus thoroughly after defecation to prevent fecal matter from remaining in the folds of the anus, which can cause itching.
The frequency and consistency of bowel movements may also contribute to anal itching. Individuals who experience constipation (three or fewer bowel movements per week) or diarrhea are more likely to develop this uncomfortable medical problem.
The following are the possible causes of anal itching:
Dietary Habits
Your dietary habits may be one of the potential causes of anal itching. For example, drinking a lot of coffee may loosen your anal muscles, which will cause your stool to leak out, triggering itching. Other foods may include:
- Carbonated drinks like coca cola
- Dairy products
- Caffeinated beverages (tea, coffee & soda pop)
- Spicy or acidic foods (citrus fruits, hot peppers, tomatoes & raw garlic)
- Chocolates & nuts
Clothing Practices
Your clothing practices affect the skin in the anal area. For example, wearing tight underwear or made of synthetic fabrics may trap heat & sweat (moisture) around your anal area, causing itching to worse.
Anal disorders
It includes hemorrhoids, abscesses, fissures, and fistulas that can lead to itching, pain, and other discomforts.
Skin conditions
Several skin conditions trigger anal itching. It includes psoriasis, eczema, seborrhea, and contact dermatitis.
Infections
It may include fungal infections *(such as yeast infection), bacterial infections (such as staph skin infection), parasitic infections (such as pinworm infections), sexually transmitted infections (such as anal herpes and gonorrhea), and anal warts from HPV (human papillomavirus)
Other medical issues
Following health problems may also be the possible causes:
- Type 2 diabetes
- Leukemia and lymphoma
- Kidney failure or liver disease
- Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid)
- Anemia
- Anxiety and stress
Treatment
If you are suffering from anal itching, contact your healthcare provider. Your doctor may advise you to undergo a tape test to detect pinworms. Pinworms are usually active at night. Place a small piece of tape around the anal area, and in the morning, remove it and see for eggs of pinworms.
Ointments & Creams
Rub the affected area of your anus twice a day with hydrocortisone(over-the-counter). It is a corticosteroid combined with an anesthetic pain reliever that may give you immediate relief. If you suffer from chronic anal itching, use tropical capsaicin creams instead.
Antibiotics or antifungal medications
If anal itching is caused by infection, your healthcare provider may prescribe you antibiotics or antifungal medications to relieve the symptoms.
Methylene blue injection
Methylene blue injections are usually administrated if your body fails to respond to other treatments. It is injected under the skin in your perianal area. The injection of methylene blue deadens nerve endings in the affected areas, relieving pain and itching.
Prevention
Adopt the following preventive measures to prevent it:
- Maintain your hygiene. Properly clean your anal area after pooping using a bidet instead of rough toilet paper. If you are still stuck with toilet paper, avoid using scented toilet paper. Use allergy-free, unscented, and unbleached toilet paper.
- Avoid using perfumed soaps, genital deodorants, or scents that may cause chemical reactions and worsen your symptoms.
- Wear cotton underwear that will absorb your sweat. It must fit you properly, and change it regularly.
- Avoid using foods that may cause anal itching. Eat more vegetables and non-citrus fruits. You can also take fiber supplements such as psyllium & methylcellulose may help.
