Conditions
Itchy Bottom
Itchy bottom is normally a symptom rather than a condition, and is characterised by a persistent strong urge to scratch the skin around the anus. Many cases of itchy bottom are a result of a bacterial infection, a skin condition like eczema or haemorrhoids but sometimes the cause is never identified. The exact numbers of those who experience itchy bottom are not known but it has been found to affect four times as many men than women. Also, while it can affect any age group, people aged 40-60 are more likely to experience the condition.
Causes of itchy bottom include a number of infections including certain STIs, thrush and threadworms. Itchy bottom can be a sign of problems with the digestive tract such as chronic diarrhoea or constipation, anal fistulas (a small tract between the anus and skin surface) and anal fissures (a tear or ulcer). In very rare cases itchy bottom can be a sign of gastrointestinal cancer but it is important to note that the vast majority of cases of itchy bottom are not caused by cancer and you should only consult your doctor about this possibility if symptoms also include significant weight loss and changes in toilet habits. In addition, itchy bottom can be the side effect of certain medications and could also be the result of a skin condition like psoriasis.
Even if the underlying cause is not identified, there are simple self-care steps that can be initiated to help stop the itch. These include keeping the bottom clean and dry and avoiding foods such as:
*tomatoes
*spicy food
*citrus fruits
*nuts
*chocolate
*dairy
*coffee
It can also help to make your diet rich in fibre to stop further irritation to the anus by loose stools. Medication can also help in the form of over the counter ointments and creams to sooth the itching and reduce inflammation. Excessive washing can actually increase irritation even though this may be the sufferers natural response as it can remove the skin’s natural oils.
Most itching will not require medical care but it is important to seek help from a doctor is the itching is severe or lasts for longer than a few weeks, if there is bleeding or discharge from the rectum and if there does not seem to be an obvious cause.
Comments and Questions
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What do you recommend for over the counter cream?
I have had anal irritation for a long time, have been checked at the hospital with sigmoidoscope, and found clear, just minor diverticulitis disease, but symptom still persists,I think it is food related, because when I had to fast for the sigmoidoscopy to empty my bowl I had no symptoms whatsoever, but after a fortnight the sore irritation came back again with having to wipe a lot throughout the day after bowl movement.
ive had an inchy anal problem for few years now,i have been treated for fissures and even had botox injections, the itch is always in same place ,ive tried and been prescribed all different creams. it does come and go, atm the itch is terrible and i fight with myself not to scratch ,ill be seeing my doctor about this again next week,aways a reacurring problem. it really gets you down and i wish there was a quick cure,but looks like there isnt one.
Have you tried to stop using toilet paper altogether? Use 100% cotton wool instead. Worked for me, after twelve years. I tried all the creams, doctors, ice packs (nearly installed a fridge next to the bed!) Give it a go, could be the harsh chemicals and bleach in the paper.
ill defo try anything, throwing the toilet paper in the bin right now ,ill give it a go,thank you
i am 15 weeks pregnant and have been having a really itchy sore bottem for a few weeks now what could be the problem?
STOP USING TOILET PAPER. Sorry to shout, but after twelve years (!) I feel it necessary. I think for some, it may be the harshness of the bleach and chemicals used in loo roll. Very, very harsh on our delicate backsides. I stopped using the stuff, as a kind of light bulb attempt to stop the itch. This itch takes over your life! It is a nightmare. For me, this seems to have worked (two months now, not an itch in sight. Have finally forgotton I have a bum!). So, give it a try. I use 100% baby cotton wool. Not much, don't want to block the system. Give it a go, it may be that simple. Hope so xxx
So comforting to know its not just me. Not the sort of thing you can chat about.I started with anal itching in 2007 then a few months later it started on my palms and the soles of my feet. The latter was eventually sorted by changing my blood pressure meds. The anal itching has just got more and more intense. I have tried many many creams. Vaseline is quite helpful in reducing damage and I wear cotton gloves to bed. I recently had 2 uninterrupted nights sleep after using germoline.Unfortunately I have run out and they dont seem to make the original any more, the thick pink stuff in a tin. The new one in a tube doesn't work.
i'ive had an itchy back passage for over 20 years, constant clipping of fingers nails, disbelieving doctors, creams for thrush, steroids etc etc. nothing has worked. i noticed this sight and i thought i had some hope but it looks like threre is no cure. i did notice in some peoples comments mention of using vinegar - the only option i havent tried. does anyone know if this is correct and if so the details of how to use. thanks
I have this problem it only came on after I had piles but going to try use all your ideas ( not at the same time) to see if they helpits the same with me it's like a rush of relief more than pleasure when I itch but it's annoying I struggle with work and general tasks cos of the fear of aggravating it thanks all
Ive had a itchy bottom for a few years now, it's the outher part of the anus and around it, also at the very top of my bottom, in which I scratch it and during the night in which I make it bleed,I keep it moist and clean and also trim any excess hair to keep it clean, but unfortunately it stays, I wouldm be more grateful if any advice could be given, I've also been to my doctor and tried a cream but still nothing.
please help, i have been to the dr as i have a sore inbetween my bum cheeks,it is constantly leaking a clear and sticky liquid so have to wear 3 sanitory towels at a time to absorb this,it doesnt smell but i am in constant discomfort i went to the doctor who said it was a form of extreme nappy rash,i was given a cream called timodine which eased it for a few days but then back to soreness, please please help
3 sanitary towels is a hell of a lot !!! U need to get your gp to refer you to a gastroenterologist who would understand the condition more as he will see cases similar every day . It sounds like an abcess or fistula to me ( an abnormal tract ) which needs sorting before you get an infection !! I'm saying see a gastro as he will deal with these extra problems due to seeing these things caused by other conditions of the stomach and bowels most days , but maybe there's someone better to see for the problem I just don't know sorry , maybe a skin specialist or colorectal surgeon . Hope this helps a bit hun Jen xx
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