What is causing this itching around my anus?
Other Qs & As
I have a very itchy outer rectum and a small rash on my inner buttock.
The itching on my rectum seems to be mainly before bedtime.
The medical term for this problem is 'pruritis ani' and is a tremendously common problem in people of all ages, but especially in those who sit or drive a lot.
The usual cause is a simple sweat rash around the anus that becomes itchy and the natural reaction is then to scratch it.
This breaks the skin and allows bacteria in that area to superficially infect it and cause further redness, inflammation and itching.
This causes further scratching and the whole cycle is repeated – this is known as the 'itch-scratch' cycle, so avoiding scratching is very important.
Do not put things like bubble baths in your bath (showering is better), avoid talc and ask your doctor for a simple cream to settle this problem down.
Usually it settles within a few days and further treatment is not required. You are not infectious, either.
The NetDoctor Medical Team