After itching

What is itching at the anus?

Itching at the anus is an itch in the anal region; more precisely, it itches, scratches, and rubs around the anal opening, the rosette. Anal itching or also anal pruritus (called Pruritus ani in the medical field) can occur with very different intensities. Depending on the cause, the itching is often not a standalone symptom but is often accompanied by burning at the anus, oozing at the anus, and pain at the anus. Mild itching at the anus over a short period does not necessarily need to be medically examined or treated. Anal itching can also be caused by faulty intimate hygiene, temporary allergic reactions to certain foods or care products, or simple skin irritations. However, persistent itching definitely requires medical evaluation and can also indicate some serious diseases.

What are the causes of itching at the anus?

The anal region, as the exit of the digestive tract with a generally moist environment, is a vulnerable body area. Itching inside and outside the anus are complaints that often Hemorrhoids can be assigned. Some proctological diseases such as anal fissures, Anal fistulas and abscesses, Hemorrhoids and other inflammatory diseases of the rectum can generally lead to irritation in the anal area. These then manifest in the symptom of itching at the anus. Infections with bacteria, fungi, viruses, or parasites can also be responsible for anal itching. Some of these infectious diseases are also classified as sexually transmitted diseases. Likewise, some medications can cause an itchy anus, i.e., itching at the anus, as a side effect.

However, there are many other causes for itching, burning, and oozing at the anus. Intensely spicy foods or allergies can cause skin reactions that lead to itching. Diseases such as gastrointestinal infections, irritable bowel syndrome, colon cancer, and diabetes are also possibly causally related here. Last but not least, injuries, such as an anal fissure, are accompanied by burning pain and itching at the anus. Thus, there is a variety of proctological disease causes that can trigger anal itching. From generally poor intimate hygiene of the anal region to serious proctological conditions.

Who is affected by itching at the anus?

The analysis and evaluation of German-language Google search trends show that the anal area is one of the most frequently searched body regions – especially in combination with the search term "itching." Anal itching is thus also one of the most common symptoms that lead patients to a proctology practice. As a personal, intimate topic, there are only estimates regarding the frequency of the symptom in society. It is assumed that about one to five percent of the population in Germany suffer from anal itching. Itching at the anus affects the male gender across all age groups two to four times more often than women.

What to do if the anus itches?
What to do for pruritus ani?

If the anus burns or itches, it should first be checked whether unfavorable lifestyle habits could be the trigger. For an itchy anus, besides incorrect, insufficient, or overly intense care of the anal region, contact allergies (e.g., detergents) as well as food intolerances should be examined as causes in the first step. Sporting activities and synthetic underwear in connection with particularly heavy sweating in the intimate or anal region should also be taken into account here.

Itching afterwards: When to see a doctor?

In cases of short-term anal itching, harmless triggers such as foods or allergies to care products are often the cause. It is not necessarily required to see a doctor for short-term anal itching. However, consulting a general practitioner or specialist can certainly help with experience and medical expertise in identifying the cause of the anal itching. If the itching persists longer and increases in intensity, a prompt visit to a medical expert is recommended. Depending on the cause, the appropriate medical specialty is either dermatology or proctology. Anal itching can sometimes be caused by serious conditions that should be clarified for health prevention purposes.

What to do in case of itching or burning at the anus?

Regardless of the cause of itching around the anus, the most important thing is to avoid scratching as much as possible. Friction and scratching can worsen the already irritated skin around the anus and the symptoms. In principle, local substances with anti-inflammatory effects can also be used short-term for symptomatic treatment and therapy of anal itching. Soothing ointments or  CANNEFF® SUP suppositories They soothe, relieve, and promote the regeneration of the skin and tissue. Additionally, all affected individuals should pay increased attention to thorough intimate care. If symptoms in the anal region persist or increase in intensity, medical advice and expertise should definitely be sought.

What helps with anal itching?

If you suffer from uncomfortable itching around the anus, pay careful attention to gentle care of the anal area. The following tips can help you possibly ease the discomfort:

• After bowel movements, it helps to clean the intimate area with clear water and then gently pat dry with very soft toilet paper.
• Do not wear synthetic underwear to avoid it becoming too warm and moist in the intimate area. When choosing your underwear, opt for natural materials like cotton, which provide a better microclimate in the intimate zone.
• Avoid spicy and very salty foods, as well as dairy products and caffeine- and alcohol-containing beverages.
• Home remedies like sitz baths with chamomile flowers, oak bark extract, or witch hazel (Hamamelis) are also used by many patients and can relieve itching discomfort around the anus. 
• Common treatment methods include soothing ointments or suppositories such as CANNEFF® SUP, which have a soothing effect on the symptoms and promote the regeneration of skin and tissue.

How do CANNEFF® SUP suppositories work in the treatment of itching at the anus?