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Anal Itching (cont.)

Anal Itching Causes

When a cause can be found, the itching is usually due to irritation of the skin around the anus.

Some of the most common irritants include the following:

  • Perfumes, chemicals, or dye on toilet paper can cause an allergic reaction.

  • Moisture from sweat or diarrhea may cause itching. If the anal skin stays wet, the skin begins to break down.

  • Some foods irritate the anus when they are expelled during a bowel movement. The most common culprits are caffeine, chocolate, beer, nuts, dairy products, and spicy food.

  • Infections such as pinworms, yeast, and genital warts can cause itching.

  • Hemorrhoids, which cause painful swelling of blood vessels in the anal area, can cause itching.

  • Cancer, in rare instances, may be a cause of anal itching.


Next: Anal Itching Symptoms »

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Pinworms »

Enterobius vermicularis (pinworm) is the most common intestinal parasite in the United States. Despite primarily living in the gut, the most common chief complaint is anal itching (pruritus).

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