Rectal itching is not a condition by itself, but a symptom of another medical condition such as hemorrhoids, skin disorder like psoriasis and eczema, diabetes and liver disease, pinworms and vaginal infections. Apart from this, rectal itching can also be caused by allergies to perfumed hygiene products as well as colored toilet paper. It is also aggravated due to consumption of certain foods, such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, spicy foods, chocolate, alcohol, tea, coffee and colas. Symptoms include itching around the anus which is aggravated while under pressure, while sitting and due to moisture. Under more advanced conditions it can be accompanied by redness and a sensation of burning and soreness around the anus. Rectal itching can be a cause of much discomfort and embarrassment especially in public places.
If you are suffering from rectal itching, you should ensure that you are only using mild soaps and nothing with chemicals that could irritate your gentle genital skin. Avoid all deodorants, perfumed sanitary napkins and tampons and colored tissue papers. It is also important to maintain strict hygiene and keep your genital area clean and dry at all times. After using the bathroom always wipe properly from front to back till you are completely clean. If necessary use a slightly wet toilet paper to clean effectively and also avoid increasing the itching sensation. Sometimes the best remedy for rectal itching can be soaking in a tub full of warm water. This will not only cleanse the area, the warm water will also increase the circulation of blood in the area, thus soothing the irritation. However, remember not to add any bath salts or oils to the water since that can increase the itching. You can apply some witch hazel to the anus to reduce rectal itching. You should soak a cotton ball in witch hazel and apply it for a few seconds to your anus after every few hours. This provides a cooling relief to the itching sensation. Alternately you can use soap nuts. You should take the skin of the soap nut, and boil it one glass of water. Once it has cooled down, you should take the boiled skin and mash it. Then strain and filter this pulp and use it to get relief from rectal itching. Sometimes rectal itching can be soothed simply by moisturizing it properly with a good lotion to avoid dryness. However remember not to use perfumed moisturizing lotions. The best bet would be to apply petroleum jelly to the anus to moisturize the sensitive skin and prevent irritation. If the itching does not reduce or cease despite all these measures, you should consult a doctor for adequate treatment.
answered by M W