Anal Itching: Everything You Need To Know About It

Anal itching can have various causes, with diet and proper hygiene usually playing a fundamental role. Include more fiber in your diet!

Anal itch: all you need to know about it

Anal itching is also known as “pruritus ani” in technical terms, another term for it is “anal itching”. You have probably never heard of it, but a great many people suffer from it.

In today’s article you will find out everything you should know about this topic.

Anal itching

Itching of the anus can be very uncomfortable and cause great suffering for those affected.

As the name suggests, itching occurs in the anus and in the surrounding areas, whereby the urge to scratch can be very strong. Further consequences are redness and swelling.

Both men and women can have it, but men are two to four times more likely to have symptoms.

Anal itching: possible causes

Itching of the anus does not necessarily have to be treated by a doctor, because this unpleasant suffering usually results from allergic reactions to food or skin reddening.

However, if the symptoms persist for a long time, you should definitely see a doctor.

anal itching causes reddening of the skin

There are various causes that can be responsible for the mostly intense itching. Then we name the most important of them.

Irritation or allergy to chemical substances

Various chemicals can cause irritation in the anus area, most of which are not even aware of it.

For example, many hygiene products contain chemical substances that can cause allergic skin reactions.

For example, caution should be exercised with the following products:

Toilet paper
Talcum powder
Soaps for the intimate area
Perfume
Creams

Too much rubbing in the anal area

Hygiene is a crucial factor, and both inadequate and excessive hygiene measures can lead to itching in the anal area.

After defecation, it should be taken into account that excessive rubbing is harmful to the skin and can cause irritation, which in turn leads to itching.

anal itching from rubbing too hard with toilet paper

When cleaning the anal area, avoid using too much pressure to prevent injury.

Lack of hygiene

However, if there is a lack of hygiene, the risk of anal itching and other symptoms is also greater.

Poor hygiene after a bowel movement can lead to itching almost immediately , especially with liquid bowel movements.

Lovely foods

anal itching from spicy foods like chilli

Certain foods can cause adverse reactions, but this is different for each person.

The anal area can, for example, be irritated by very spicy foods, whereby sensitive people in particular should be careful.

In this case, you should avoid the following foods, among others:

Spicy or sour foods (cayenne pepper, chilli, citrus fruits, or tomatoes)
Drinks with caffeine (soft drinks, coffee or tea)
chocolate
Spices

Anal Itching: What Can You Do About It?

There are several natural remedies that can be very helpful in this case. Then we will tell you the most important of them.

garlic

The antiseptic and antibacterial properties of the white tuber are perfect for relieving the itching in the anal area.

You can eat garlic raw or use it in a variety of recipes.

Aloe vera

Aloe gel has calming and soothing effects that can relieve itching, pain and inflammation in the anal area.

Incidentally, it can also be used to treat hemorrhoids.

yogurt

Not all yogurt is suitable for treating anus itch.

Use natural yoghurt with a high content of probiotics (bacteria that are healthy for the organism).
These alleviate the discomfort in the anal area.
Apply the yogurt directly or eat at least two cups a day.

Fiber

In addition, you should include more fiber in your diet to improve digestion. This can help promote healthy bowel movement and help treat anal itching.