What are the causes of anal itching?

Because the anus is an exceptionally awkward and private area, many people tend to overlook its health issues. Anal itching is one of the more severe conditions, significantly impacting daily work and study, making it hard to sit still. What are the causes of anal itching? Let's delve into them together.

What are the causes of anal itching?

1、Parasitic infections

Patients infected with intestinal parasites, such as pinworms, might experience anal itching. Although pinworms reside in the intestines, they crawl to the anal area to lay eggs, which can induce itching.

2、Bacterial infections

Human feces naturally contain parasites and bacteria, and the anus serves as an exit point for defecation. If feces are not thoroughly cleaned after bowel movements, residual matter can breed bacteria, leading to bacterial proliferation around the anal area and causing itching. It’s crucial to ensure proper cleaning after using the toilet, perhaps using specialized flushable wet wipes for better hygiene than dry toilet paper. Additionally, rinsing the anal area with clean water before bed is advisable, as good hygiene habits are the foundation of health.

3、Anal eczema

Anal eczema is an allergic skin condition confined to the anal area and surrounding skin, characterized by symptoms like rashes, erythema, and erosion. This condition can cause intense itching around the anus, which worsens if scratched. Managing anal eczema involves reducing the frequency of baths, especially hot baths, and using lukewarm water for cleaning to avoid aggravating the condition. Wearing loose, breathable clothing during treatment and recovery is also recommended to minimize irritation from friction.

4、Colorectal cancer

This is the least desirable cause of anal itching, as malignant tumors in the intestines can trigger symptoms like itching. As the disease progresses, the itching can intensify, potentially leading to ulceration and bleeding. Thus, it's imperative to take anal itching seriously to avoid overlooking such a severe condition, which could lead to regret.

Anal itching severely disrupts daily life, causing discomfort and embarrassment. Therefore, it's essential to identify the specific causes of anal itching and address them effectively for quick and efficient relief.