What causes anal itching and pain?

Jul 15, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I've been feeling particularly uncomfortable around the anus for the past two days, with a sensation of itching and some pain. May I ask what are the possible causes of anal itching and pain?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Li Jingxiang
Anal itching and pain may be caused by multiple factors, mainly including: 1. Perianal diseases: such as hemorrhoids, perianal eczema, anal fissures, and anal fistulas. Hemorrhoids are often associated with improper diet and excessive straining during bowel movements, which can lead to chronic skin infections around the anus, causing itching and pain. Perianal eczema is a type of allergic dermatosis, often presenting as rashes around the anus, accompanied by itching, which may result in pain after scratching. Anal fissures and anal fistulas may cause itching and pain due to irritation from secretions or inflammatory reactions. 2. Systemic diseases: General conditions such as diabetes may affect normal skin function, leading to anal itching and pain. 3. Unhealthy lifestyle habits: An unhealthy diet, such as consumption of spicy or greasy foods or stimulants like coffee, along with prolonged sitting on hard surfaces, may irritate the anus and cause itching and pain. 4. Personal hygiene issues: Poor anal hygiene, including excessive cleaning or the use of irritating cleansers, may also lead to dryness and itching of the anus, subsequently causing pain. 5. Other factors: Conditions such as neurogenic anal pain and liver disease may also cause anal itching and pain. When experiencing anal itching and pain, it is recommended to seek timely medical attention, identify the underlying cause, and undergo targeted treatment under a physician's guidance.