Anal itching - self-care

Anal itching occurs when the skin around your anus becomes irritated. You may feel intense itching around and just inside the anus.

Causes

Anal itching may be caused by:

• Spicy foods, caffeine, alcohol, and other irritating foods and beverages
• Scents or dyes in toilet paper or soap
• Diarrhea
• Hemorrhoids, which are swollen veins in or around your anus

  Hemorrhoids

  Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the anus or lower part of the rectum.

   

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• Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
• Taking antibiotics
• Yeast infections
• Parasites, such as pinworms, which more commonly occur in children

  Pinworms

  Pinworms are small worms that infect the intestines.

   

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Self-care at Home

To treat anal itching at home, you should keep the area as clean and dry as possible.

• Clean the anus gently after bowel movements, without scrubbing. Use a squeeze bottle of water, unscented baby wipes, a wet washcloth, or wet unscented toilet paper.
• Avoid soaps with dyes or fragrances.
• Pat dry with a clean, soft towel or unscented toilet paper. Do not rub the area.
• Try over-the-counter creams, ointments, or gels with hydrocortisone or zinc oxide, made to soothe anal itching. Be sure to follow the directions for use on the package.
• Wear loose clothing and cotton underwear to help keep the area dry.
• Try not to scratch the area. This can cause swelling and irritation, and make itching worse.
• Avoid foods and beverages that can cause loose stools or irritate the skin around the anus. This includes spicy foods, caffeine, and alcohol.
• Use fiber supplements, if needed, to help you have regular bowel movements.

When to Call the Doctor

Contact your health care provider if you have:

• A rash or lump in or around the anus
• Bleeding or discharge from the anus
• Fever

Also, contact your provider if self-care does not help within 2 or 3 weeks.

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