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Itchy skin around the anus (pruritus ani) can have many causes.
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| Causes of Anal Itching |
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Category
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Examples
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Disorders
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Anal disorders
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Bowen's disease
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Fistulas that drain
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Inflammation of a follicle in the rectum (cryptitis)
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Paget's disease of the anal sweat glands
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Bacterial infections*
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Fungal infections
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Yeast infection (candidiasis)
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Parasitic infections
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Pinworms
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Scabies
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Skin disorders
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Atopic dermatitis
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Psoriasis
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Skin tags
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Other disorders
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Diabetes
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Liver disorders
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Other factors
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Anxiety
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Anxiety about itching (anxiety-itch-anxiety cycle)
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Drugs
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Antibiotics
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Foods and dietary supplements
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Beer
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Caffeinated beverages (such as coffee and cola)
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Citrus fruits
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Spices
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Vitamin C tablets
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Hygiene-related problems
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Excessive sweating
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Overly meticulous cleansing
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Poor cleansing
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Tight undergarments
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Skin irritants
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Anesthetic preparations
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Ointments
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Soaps
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*Bacterial infections around the anus often start when scratching breaks the skin so that bacteria can enter the body.
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After bowel movements, the anal area should be cleaned with absorbent cotton or soft, plain toilet or facial tissue, which may be moistened with warm water. Frequent dusting with cornstarch or talcum powder helps combat moisture. Corticosteroid creams, antifungal creams such as miconazole , or soothing suppositories may be used. Foods that can cause anal itching are avoided for a while to see whether the condition improves. Clothing should be loose, and bed clothing should be lightweight. If the condition does not improve and a doctor suspects cancer, a skin specimen may be obtained for examination.
Last full review/revision October 2007 by Parswa Ansari, MD; Norman Sohn, MD
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