We accept Telehealth appointments. Please schedule a virtual visit here.
Skip to main content

Why Does My Butt Itch? [Practical information you need]

Pruritus Ani is Latin for “itchy anus”, and is a bothersome irritation of the skin around the anus. Numerous factors can cause anal itch, and it is treatable. Factors that can put you more at risk include dietary factors, fecal matter on underwear, diabetes, antibiotic use, skin conditions such as psoriasis and seborrhea, and excessive sweating. It could also be your hemorrhoids itching!
When you scratch, you irritate the skin even more. So, what can you do to stop the embarrassing itchy anus?

Is it what I’m eating? Sure, it may play a role with pruritus ani. Coffee, tea, energy drinks, citrus fruits, spicy food, beer, dairy products, and nuts can contribute. That’s because certain foods can make your stool irritating. Try eliminating one of these at a time for several weeks, and see if it helps.

Is it what I’m using down there? Yes, scented toilet paper, soaps and creams, and detergents can contribute to your problem. Avoid soaps to anal area, use plain white toilet paper, and keep the area dry. Check with your doctor about over-the-counter ointments and creams—the wrong one can make the itch worse!

Is my chronic diarrhea causing the itch? Good question, because stool is very irritating and a common cause of pruritus ani. Keep the area clean—plain water rinses are good—and gently wipe and dry after every bowel movement. Do not scrub, and avoid scratching as much as possible. Cool compresses can be soothing, too.

What other conditions can cause itchy anal itching? Sexually transmitted diseases, fungal and yeast infections, parasites, precancerous lesions, and tumors can be primary to your itching. That’s why it is so important to be examined and treated by a board certified colon & rectal surgeon. Don’t be embarrassed, and please don’t wait!

Contact Dr. Lisa A. Perryman, a board certified colon & rectal surgeon in Denver at (303)840-8822, or request an appointment at www.ColoradoColon.com.

You Might Also Enjoy...

Do I Need Surgery for My Hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids are a tissue problem affecting blood vessels in and around the anus and rectum. Often a nuisance, sometimes persistent hemorrhoid symptoms require surgery.

Anal Itching at Night: What Could It Mean?

A skin condition affecting the region around the anus, pruritus ani (anal itching) has multiple causes. It can become worse at night, noticeable enough to disturb your sleep. It’s primarily a problem that affects men over the age of 40.

Surgical Treatment to Repair Anal Fissures

While an anal fissure can be a short-lived, self-healing condition, some turn into chronic, persistent problems. Acute anal fissures can cause severe pain. Whether acute or chronic, surgery may be the right choice to promote healing.

Surgical Treatment for Fistulas

Following an anal abscess, your chances of developing an anal fistula increase dramatically. An abnormal opening connecting the anal canal with the surface of the buttocks, a fistula won’t heal spontaneously. You’ll need surgery to cure the problem.

Rectal Bleeding Without Hemorrhoids: 3 Known Causes

It’s never a comfortable feeling to find signs of blood after a bowel movement. While it’s common with some types of hemorrhoids, it can also be a symptom of other colorectal issues. Here are three other causes of rectal bleeding.