Anal itching can result from conditions like hemorrhoids and atopic dermatitis. Itching around your butthole may result from improper wiping. You can usually treat it at home with hydrocortisone cream.

Depending on the cause of anal itching, also known as pruritus ani, you may also experience additional symptoms, such as:

  • burning
  • discoloration
  • soreness
  • bright red blood when you wipe

You can treat most causes of anal itching at home without medical guidance. Keep reading to learn about the possible causes, how to avoid them, at-home remedies, and when to talk with a doctor.

An itchy rectum can result from different skin or internal medical issues. Skin-related causes of an itchy anus include:

  • atopic dermatitis, a form of eczema
  • excess friction to the anal area, such as rough wiping after a bowel movement
  • exposure to perfumes and dyes present in toilet paper, soaps, or clothing detergents
  • improper wiping after having a bowel movement
  • psoriasis

Medical conditions that can cause anal itching include:

Other causes include taking laxatives or other medications that cause diarrhea. Certain foods are also linked with anal itching for some people. These can include:

  • chocolate
  • spicy foods
  • caffeinated beverages
  • tomatoes
  • citrus fruits

In addition to anal itching, you may also experience:

  • burning
  • soreness
  • visible discoloration
  • swelling
  • ulcers
  • a rash

It’s best to talk with a doctor if you have anal itching that:

  • lasts for multiple days despite self-care
  • worsens
  • disrupts your daily life
  • occurs with concerning symptoms

When to seek emergency care

It’s best to seek emergency medical care if you experience certain concerning symptoms, including:

  • significant rectal bleeding
  • severe pain
  • fever

It may be best to talk with a doctor as soon as you can if you experience:

A primary care physician (PCP) can perform an exam to determine the cause of rectal itching and recommend treatment.

You can take several steps at home to treat an itchy anus. Consider the following:

  • Wipe with moistened wipes or toilet paper moistened with water to prevent stool from staying on the anal skin.
  • Apply petroleum jelly to the affected area.
  • Clean the area with water and a soft washcloth when bathing.
  • Dry the anal area thoroughly after using the restroom and bathing.
  • Avoid scratching the anal area.
  • Avoid using bath products that contain perfumes or dyes, which can irritate the skin or cause an allergic reaction.
  • Use toilet paper that doesn’t contain harsh dyes or bleaches. You may prefer to buy types that are described as soft.
  • Wear breathable cotton underwear that’s not too tight.

You may also want to consider a sitz bath. In a sitz bath, you place your butt and hips in warm water for up to 20 minutes. Sitting in a sitz bath after a bowel movement can help reduce irritation and itching. Always gently dry the anal area after the bath.

You can also purchase several over-the-counter topical creams to treat anal itching. These include:

If your symptoms do not improve with at-home care, it’s best to talk with a doctor to determine the underlying cause.

Treatment options for an itchy anus depend on the underlying cause.

If the itching is due to an infection, a doctor can prescribe an antifungal, antibacterial, or antiparasitic treatment to target the infectious organisms. Prescription ointments with higher steroid doses can also lessen itching and reduce inflammation.

You can often manage hemorrhoids with over-the-counter or prescription hemorrhoid medication and dietary changes if there isn’t an underlying cause.

  • If you’re experiencing hemorrhoids due to constipation, you can gradually increase your fiber and water intake to soften the stool. If you’re experiencing frequent constipation, it’s worth talking with a doctor, such as a gastroenterologist, who specializes in the digestive system, to determine the underlying cause.
  • If you have hemorrhoids due to diarrhea, it’s best to talk with a doctor to determine if diarrhea is caused by a gastrointestinal infection or health condition such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
  • Sometimes, hemorrhoids that cause anal itching may not go away and require more invasive treatments, such as banding to shrink the hemorrhoid or surgical removal of the hemorrhoid.

Avoiding foods and medications known to cause itchiness in the anus can also reduce symptoms.

Following habits that support your overall health can also help prevent an itchy anus. Prevention techniques include:

Maintaining a healthy diet and exercise routine

Eating a balanced diet, such as the Mediterranean diet, that emphasizes lean proteins, varied fruit and vegetables, whole grains, and legumes and supplies necessary fiber, which can help make your bowel movements more regular.

It’s also important to drink enough water, which helps move digested food through your body. The U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine recommends:

  • 11.5 cups (2.7 liters) a day for females
  • 15.5 cups (3.7 liters) a day for males

Getting regular exercise can help promote digestive regularity to prevent diarrhea and hemorrhoids.

Practicing good hygiene habits

Having good hygiene habits can help prevent itching. Good practices include refraining from scratching and keeping the anal area clean and dry.

Proper wiping techniques can help. Be sure to use unscented wipes, wipe front-to-back, and use a gentle patting motion.

Wearing loose clothing

Wearing loose-fitting clothing with natural, breathable fibers can minimize irritation and moisture. Avoid synthetic fibers, which are less breathable.

Using clear soaps and detergents

Refraining from using soaps and detergents with dyes and perfumes can also prevent skin irritation that leads to an itchy anus.

Stress

Stress can trigger health conditions that may contribute to anal itching, including IBS. To relieve stress, you can try self-care techniques, including:

  • journaling
  • mindfulness and yoga
  • exercise

Anal itching often results from improper wiping or hemorrhoids.

You can usually manage anal itching at home with improved anal hygiene and OTC treatments like hydrocortisone cream.

However, if anal itching occurs with other symptoms or doesn’t resolve with self-care, it’s best to consult with a doctor to determine if there’s an underlying cause and how to treat it.

Sometimes, you may develop anal itching from digestive health conditions like IBS or IBD. These health conditions can require treatment to resolve your symptoms.