Julie Hambleton

Julie Hambleton

January 17, 2024

10 Reasons You Have an Itchy Bum – and When to See a Doctor

No one likes having an itchy bum. It’s not only physically uncomfortable and annoying but mentally and emotionally. After all, there isn’t an easy way to scratch an itchy bum in public discreetly, leading to a lot of anxiety. Worse, it is an awkward thing to talk about, even to a health professional. While most of the causes of an itchy bum aren’t too big of a health concern, there does come a time when you really should see a doctor. This is everything you didn’t know you needed to know about what causes an itchy bum, also known as anal itching.

10 Common Causes of an Itchy Bum

A funny image of a man scratching his bum on holiday
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Experiencing anal itching can be uncomfortable and distressing. It’s important to understand that anal itching, also known as pruritus ani, is usually a symptom of an underlying issue rather than a condition itself. Identifying the cause of your itchy bum is essential to finding relief. These are the ten most common reasons why you may be experiencing this and when it is advisable to seek medical attention. (1, 2)

Read More: 6 Reasons You Should Eat One Cup of Pineapple Every Day

1. Hygiene Issues

Hemorrhoidal pain, man suffering from hemorrhoids at home, health problems concept
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Improper wiping after a bowel movement can leave behind fecal matter and moisture. This leads to irritation and itching. On the other hand, excessive or harsh wiping can also cause irritation. Proper hygiene, such as using unscented toilet paper moistened with warm water and avoiding scented soaps, can help alleviate this problem.

2. Skin Conditions

Man with diarrhea problem, Man with digestive problem touching his buttock, man with hemorrhoid problem. blurry bathroom background.
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Chronic skin conditions like psoriasis and anal eczema can cause inflammation and itching around the anus. Psoriasis manifests as red patches and silvery, flaky scales, while anal eczema is characterized by inflammation and severe itching. Dermatologists can prescribe medications and treatments to manage these conditions.

3. Clothing

Asian young man has diarrhoea, holding her butt,hands touching his bottom in pain having hemorrhoids,person male scratching hand his itchying from pinworm infection,health problem,healthcare concept
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Tight-fitting or non-breathable clothing can create a warm and sweaty environment. This promotes bacterial growth and the resulting itching. Friction from clothing can also lead to inflamed hair follicles or folliculitis. Opting for loose-fitting, breathable clothing made from cotton can help prevent anal itching.

4. Food Irritants

Hemorrhoidal pain, man suffering from hemorrhoids at home, health problems concept
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Certain foods can contribute to an itchy bum by causing diarrhea or anal leakage. Examples include caffeine, carbonated beverages, citrus fruits, nuts, and spicy or acidic foods. Ensuring a balanced diet and avoiding known irritants may help alleviate symptoms.

5. Pinworms

Microscope in laboratory, closeup. Zoomed view on parasitic worms
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Pinworms are a common cause of genital itching. These worms are easily transmitted through person-to-person contact or touching contaminated surfaces. Children are more susceptible to pinworm infections. Over-the-counter or prescribed oral medications can effectively eliminate pinworms.

6. Hemorrhoids or Anal Fissures

woman hand holding her painful butt caused by hemorrhoids isolated on white background
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Hemorrhoids are swollen veins around the anus, often caused by straining during bowel movements or a low-fiber diet. Anal fissures are small tears in the anal lining caused by excess tension or lack of blood flow. Eating a fiber-rich diet, managing constipation, and topical treatments can help alleviate these conditions.

7. Yeast Infections

woman wearing gray clothes stand by the bed, bottom pain and rod,Acute Inflammation in a woman Dermatitis . Female holding hand to spot of itchy
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Yeast infections can occur in the perianal region due to Candida, a fungus that thrives in warm, moist environments. Tight-fitting clothing and weakened immune systems can increase the risk. Medications to treat Candida are available, and improving hygiene practices can help prevent recurrence.

Read More: People Shocked to Learn Reason Public Toilet Doors Don’t Touch The Floor

8. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)

Woman suffering from hemorrhoids, anal pain on gray background, painful area highlighted in red
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Certain STIs, such as gonorrhea, herpes, and anal warts (caused by HPV), can cause anal itching. Symptoms typically occur around the anus, especially in individuals engaging in anal sex. Treatment options vary based on the specific STI and may include antiviral creams, cryotherapy, or surgery.

9. Scabies

Many scabies mites, itch-mites parasitic microorganism of human skin, microscope view
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Scabies is a highly contagious skin condition caused by the human itch mite. It can cause itching and rashes throughout the body, including the anal and genital areas. Prescription medications are necessary to treat scabies effectively.

10. Chronic and Systemic Diseases

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Underlying health conditions like diabetes and autoimmune diseases can weaken the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections and itching. Proper management of the underlying condition is crucial for relieving anal itching in these cases.

When to See a Doctor

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While many cases of an itchy bum can be managed with self-care measures, it is important to consult a doctor if:

  • The itching persists for an extended period or becomes increasingly severe.
  • The itching is accompanied by bleeding, discharge, or changes in stool color.
  • There are signs of infection, such as pus or foul smell.
  • The itching interferes with your daily activities and quality of life.

Remember, a healthcare professional can provide an accurate diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment options based on your specific condition. Anal itching can be caused by various factors, ranging from hygiene issues and skin conditions to infections and underlying diseases. Understanding the root cause of your itchy bum is key to finding relief. By following proper hygiene practices, seeking medical advice when necessary, and addressing any underlying conditions, you can effectively manage and alleviate this condition.

Read More: 5 Reasons You Should Start Freezing Blueberries

Sources

  1. Anal Itching (Pruritus Ani).” Cleveland Clinic
  2. 11 Reasons You Might Have an Itchy Butt—And How To Treat It.” Health. Amanda MacMillan. March 3, 2023.