Itchy Anus Diagnosis and Treatment

Causes of anal itching

One of the most frequent causes of anal itching is irritation from excessive cleaning. Over-scrubbing the area can inflame the skin, making it itchy. Certain ingredients in soaps, ointments, creams, or other products may also contribute to irritation.

Inadequate cleaning can also lead to itching. Residual faeces on the skin can act as a trigger.

Additionally, some foods containing irritating ingredients may cause discomfort. These substances can pass through your digestive system, and their remnants in your bowel movements may irritate the skin around the anus.

Various medical conditions can also cause anal itching, such as:

Infections

Yeast infections, which are fungal in nature, may cause itching and tenderness. These infections can begin in the vagina and spread or may originate in the anus. Antibiotics are a common trigger for such infections. Certain bacterial infections can also result in itching.

Faecal or urinary incontinence

Children, elderly individuals, and those with disabilities may struggle with bathroom usage, leading to prolonged exposure of skin to faeces or urine, which can result in irritation and itching.

Parasites

In children, anal itching is often caused by tiny, harmless, but uncomfortable parasites known as pinworms. Scabies can also affect the area.

Skin conditions

Disorders such as psoriasis and atopic dermatitis can impact the skin around the anus. Allergic rashes may also cause irritation in this area.

Other health conditions

Chronic illnesses like diabetes, thyroid disease, liver or kidney disorders, leukaemia, lymphoma, Crohn's disease, and irritable bowel syndrome can lead to anal itching.

Physical conditions

Health concerns like haemorrhoids or anal fissures can contribute to irritation and itching around the anus.

Diagnosing an Itchy Anus

You should visit your GP if:

• The itch is severe, recurring, or lasts more than a few days.
• You're worried or the itch disrupts your sleep.
• Your bottom seems infected or you have itching elsewhere on your body.

Your GP will examine the area, review your medical history, and ask about your daily habits. If the cause isn't clear, they may refer you for further tests, like a colonoscopy.

When to Seek Urgent Care

Contact your GP immediately if you experience bleeding, bloody diarrhea, or pus discharge along with itching.

Treatments for anal itching

If you suspect a yeast or fungal infection, consult your doctor for appropriate treatment recommendations. They may advise over-the-counter remedies or prescribe stronger medication.

Here are some home remedies that may alleviate discomfort:

• Wash gently: Use mild soap and water to clean the area. Avoid vigorous scrubbing, and pat the skin dry. Keep the area dry between showers or baths. Resist scratching, as it can further damage the skin.
• Wear breathable clothing: Opt for underwear that is non-irritating and allows the skin to breathe. Tight-fitting clothes can trap moisture, exacerbating irritation.
• Eat a mild diet: Avoid foods that could make bowel movements more irritating, such as coffee, alcohol, citrus fruits, chocolate, spicy dishes, tomatoes, and other acidic foods.
• Over-the-counter treatments: Use creams or ointments designed to soothe the skin around the anus. Haemorrhoid medications or diaper rash creams may also provide relief.

Steps You Can Take:

• Avoid excessive sweating by placing a cotton tissue in your underwear if needed.
• Gently clean the area with warm water and dry it thoroughly with plain, unscented tissue after bowel movements and before bed. When away from home, use wet wipes followed by patting the area dry.
• Take short, cool baths or showers daily (under 20 minutes).
• Wear loose, breathable cotton underwear and clothing to keep the area cool and avoid overheating.
• Eat a fiber-rich diet to keep stools firm and regular. Include fruits, vegetables, and wholegrain foods like bread, cereal, and pasta.

What to Avoid:

• Spicy foods, alcohol, or excessive caffeine.
• Scratching. Keep your nails short and wear cotton gloves at night to minimize the risk.
• Straining during bowel movements or urination.
• Using scented products near your anus, including soaps, bath oils, or creams.
• Wiping with tissue after bowel movements. Instead, wash with warm water and pat dry before dressing.

When should I seek medical help?

Sometimes, anal itching can indicate a more serious condition that requires medical attention. Consult a doctor if you experience the following symptoms along with anal itching:

• Pus discharge from the anus or surrounding areas
• Bloody diarrhoea
• Bulging or protruding haemorrhoids
• Thickened or dull skin around the anus

When you visit a doctor, they will ask about your medical history and any medications you are taking that could affect your bowel movements and contribute to the irritation. Your healthcare provider will aim to treat the underlying cause and the itching. For conditions such as pinworms or scabies, they may prescribe specific medications to address the issue.

If you have a digestive condition like Crohn's disease or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inform your doctor. Frequent bowel movements associated with these disorders can worsen irritation, and adjustments to your treatment plan may be necessary to manage all symptoms effectively.

In most cases, relief from anal itching is achievable. However, if home remedies and over-the-counter treatments fail to provide comfort, seek guidance from a medical professional for further evaluation and treatment.

Take action

If you want to know more about itchy anus or are currently experiencing this condition, reach out to us today to schedule an appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes an itchy bottom at night?

An itchy bottom that worsens at night may indicate a threadworm infection. This is especially common in children, with around 40% affected at some point. Effective over-the-counter treatments are available—consult your pharmacist or GP.

Is petroleum jelly helpful for an itchy anus?

Yes, petroleum jelly can protect the skin from excess moisture or sweat, reducing irritation and itching.

How can I tell if I have threadworms?

Symptoms of threadworms include intense itchiness around the anus, especially at night. You may also see threadworms in your stool, resembling small threads.

How can threadworms be treated naturally?

While medication is the most effective treatment, threadworms can also be managed by maintaining strict hygiene. This includes cleaning surfaces, washing bedding and clothes frequently, keeping nails short and clean, and practicing thorough personal hygiene. However, these measures must be followed for at least 5–6 weeks until the threadworms naturally die.

How long do threadworms last if untreated?

Threadworms live in the gut for 5–6 weeks. Female threadworms lay eggs around the anus before dying, causing itching. These eggs can survive outside the body for up to two weeks, leading to reinfection without strict hygiene measures.

Can adults get threadworms?

Threadworms are more common in children, but adults in the same household as an infected child can easily catch them.