Anal pruritus is an itchy feeling in the anus and on the skin around the anus. This is common and can be caused by many things. It often occurs when the area becomes moist. Moisture may be due to sweating or to a small amount of stool (feces) that is left on the area because of poor personal cleaning. Some other causes include:

• Things that can irritate your skin, such as:

  • Perfumed soaps and sprays.

  • Colored or scented toilet paper.

  • Excessive washing.

• Certain foods, such as caffeine, beer, and spicy foods.

• Diarrhea or loose stool.

• Skin disorders (psoriasis, eczema, or seborrhea).

• Hemorrhoids, fissures, infections, and other anal diseases.

• Other medical conditions, such as diabetes, thyroid problems, STIs (sexually transmitted infections), or some cancers.

Skin care

• Practice good hygiene.

  • Clean the anal area gently with wet toilet paper or a wet washcloth after every bowel movement and at bedtime.

  • Avoid using soaps on the anal area.

  • Dry the area thoroughly. Pat the area dry with toilet paper or a towel.

• Do not scrub the anal area with anything, including toilet paper.

• Do not scratch the itchy area. Scratching causes more damage and makes the itching worse.

• Take sitz baths as told by your health care provider.

  • A sitz bath is a warm water bath that only comes up to your hips and covers your buttocks. A sitz bath may be done at home in a bathtub or with a portable sitz bath that fits over the toilet.

  • Pat the area dry with a soft cloth after each bath.

• Use creams or ointments as told by your health care provider. Zinc oxide ointment or a moisture barrier cream can be applied several times a day to protect and heal the skin.

• Do not use anything that irritates the skin, such as bubble baths, scented toilet paper, or genital deodorants.

General instructions

• Pay attention to any changes in your symptoms.

• Take or apply over-the-counter and prescription medicines only as told by your health care provider.

• Avoid overusing medicines that help you have a bowel movement (laxatives). These can cause you to have loose stools.

• Talk with your health care provider about whether you should increase the fiber in your diet. This can help keep your stool normal if you have frequent loose stools.

• Limit or avoid foods that may cause your symptoms. These may include:

  • Spicy foods, such as salsa, jalapeño peppers, and spicy seasonings.

  • Caffeine or beer.

  • Milk products.

  • Chocolate, nuts, citrus fruits, or tomatoes.

• Wear cotton underwear and loose clothing.

• Keep all follow-up visits as told by your health care provider. This is important.