What causes anal itching?
Most cases of anal itch are caused by a harmless problem. But anal itch can be a sign of more serious medical issues. Possible causes include:
Dry skin. As you age, skin in and around your anus is more prone to dryness. Dry skin can cause a persistent, intense anal itch.
Too much moisture. Moisture around your anus from excessive sweating or from moist, sticky stools can be irritating. Anal itch can also be caused by frequent diarrhea or the escape of small amounts of stool (fecal incontinence).
Excessive washing. Excessive wiping with dry, harsh toilet paper or excessive scrubbing with harsh soaps and a washcloth can cause or aggravate anal itch. Failure to rinse away the soap completely also may cause irritation.
Chemical irritants. Certain laundry soaps, colognes, douches and birth control products contain chemicals that can irritate skin in and around your anus. Scented or colored toilet paper can be irritating to people with sensitive skin.
Food irritants. Anal itch may be the result of irritating chemicals in some foods, such as those found in spices and hot sauces. Similarly, some foods may directly or indirectly irritate your anus as they exit your digestive system. Common culprits include chocolate, fruits, tomatoes, nuts and popcorn. Consuming certain beverages — possibly milk or caffeinated drinks — may cause some people to experience diarrhea followed by anal itch.
Medications. Anal itch may be a side effect of certain medications, such as some antibiotics, that can cause frequent diarrhea.
Overuse of laxatives. Excessive or improper use of laxatives can lead to chronic diarrhea and the risk of anal irritation and itch.
Hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids are engorged veins located just under the membrane that lines the lowest part of your rectum and anus. They often occur as a result of straining during a bowel movement. Anal itch can be a symptom of hemorrhoids. However, most hemorrhoids don't itch.
Infections. In children, the parasite that causes pinworms can cause persistent anal itching. Other parasites may cause similar itching.
Skin disorders. Common skin problems - such as psoriasis, seborrhea and eczema - can involve and irritate the area in and around your anus.
Yeast infections. This common infection, which usually affects women, can irritate your genital and anal areas.
Anal abrasions and fissures. An anal abrasion is a small tear in your anus, usually caused by forced bowel movements through a tight anus. An anal fissure is a deeper tear. Both conditions can cause anal itch, as well as painful bowel movements and bleeding.
Anal tumors. Rarely, benign or cancerous tumors in or around the anus may be a cause of anal itch.
Other causes. Anal itch may be related to anxiety or stress. Sometimes, the cause is unknown. |
