Anal Itching

Table of Content

1. Anal Itching: When Does It Require Medical Attention?
2. Causes of anal itching?
3. Treatment of anal itching

Anal Itching: When Does It Require Medical Attention?

Anal itching is an uncomfortable symptom that can be both embarrassing and disruptive to daily life. While it may seem minor, it can sometimes signal an underlying condition that requires proper medical evaluation. In some cases, itching appears without an obvious cause, but it may also be linked to dermatological, infectious, or even systemic health issues.

Although many people experience this problem, few seek medical advice. Delaying diagnosis can worsen symptoms or lead to complications. It’s important to distinguish between temporary itching caused by external irritants and chronic itching that persists or recurs over time.

Understanding the condition starts with identifying the nature, duration, and context of the symptoms. General health status and personal hygiene habits also play a significant role in the appearance and persistence of anal itching. Sometimes, it results from a simple, treatable issue. Other times, it may indicate a more serious condition that requires thorough treatment.

Seeing a specialist is the first step toward effective relief. Dr. Daad Al-Taani in Dubai has extensive experience in diagnosing and treating anal itching using precise tools and tailored treatment plans. She offers clear guidance to help patients overcome this sensitive issue with complete comfort and privacy throughout their care.

If you’re experiencing persistent or recurring anal discomfort, don’t ignore it. Early intervention can help identify the root cause and provide appropriate treatment before the condition worsens.

To watch the latest exclusive interviews with Dr. Daad Al-Taani, visit our YouTube channel.

Causes of anal itching?

1- Contact dermatitis :

It occurs because of exposure to some skin irritants such as::

Excessive washing, use of soap, excessive use of wet wipes, and application of powders, skin moisturizers, scented ointments, and other products to the anal area.
Lack of attention to good hygiene and the presence of stool residue in the anus.
Retention of sweat or excessive moisture in the area, especially when wearing tight underwear or made of fabrics that cause itching, such as wool and synthetic fibres.
Chronic urinary or fecal incontinence, which is the most common cause of anal itching in children and the elderly.
It should be noted that there is a relationship between itching and diet (as diet affects defecation habits):Such as excessive consumption of drinks containing caffeine, such as coffee and tea, soft drinks, alcoholic drinks, chocolate, nuts, citrus fruits, and spicy food (causes irritation and itching after defecation).

2- Infection or inflammation :

Bacterial, fungal, viral, parasitic infections and scabies.
- Staphylococcus aureus bacteria.
- Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria.
- Candida albicans fungus.
- Pinworms (Enterobius vermicularis).
- Human papillomavirus (HPV).
- Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

3-Anal diseases :

Prolapse or prolapse of the rectum.
Internal or external hemorrhoids.
Anal fissures.
Perianal fistulas.
Anal tumors.

4-Systemic diseases :

Psoriasis and atopic dermatitis (eczema).
Diabetes.
Thyroid diseases.
Liver disease.
Blood cancers.
Kidney failure.
Inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn’s disease.
Psychological disorders such as anxiety, stress, or depression.

Treatment of anal itching

Treating anal itching depends on treating the cause. Therefore, it is necessary to visit a doctor to diagnose and treat the medical condition causing the itching. Anal diseases such as hemorrhoids and others must be treated if they exist, inflammation and infections must be treated with appropriate medications, and accompanying systemic diseases must be treated.
It is necessary to follow the appropriate instructions to avoid itching due to skin irritants, which are:

Cleaning well with water after defecation. It is preferable to use water instead of soap or wet bathroom tissues to clean the anal area after defecation. It is preferable to dry with a soft towel and make sure the anal area is dry.
Avoid using scented creams and moisturizers and avoid washing in a bathtub filled with soap foam or cleaning powders and other products that may lead to irritation of the area.
Avoid wearing tight underwear. Wear cotton clothes and the size should be appropriate for the body. Make sure to change them frequently and wash them with unscented laundry detergents.
Eat foods rich in fibre, as a healthy diet can reduce diarrhea and constipation and regulate defecation habits and avoid foods that cause itching and irritation such as spicy and sour foods.

Anal Itching