Infections
Anal warts arising from the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) cause itching of the anal area. These warts grow inside the anus and spread towards the genitalia. If left untreated, they may cause anal cancer.
Pinworms occur from ingestion or inhalation of the pinworm eggs. They cause itching when the female lays eggs within the anus. Pinworms are common in children. Pinworms inhabit bed linen, toys, and bathroom fittings, resembling slices of white thread.
Dermatological Irritations
Scabies is a common skin infection that causes anal itching. The scabies mite delves into the epidermis layer of the skin and inhabits there. They are popular within the anal region, causing inflammation and itching of the area. Similarly to pinworms, scabies is transmitted through skin-to-skin contact.
Psoriasis is another primary culprit of pruritus ani. Psoriasis is characterized by red, non-scaly patches on the skin. These patches sting mercilessly during bowel movement.
Dermatitis also causes a rash where the sun does not shine. Other skin infections, such as seborrhea and eczema, cause perianal itching.
Poor Personal Hygiene
Failure to wipe well after bowel movement causes stinging and itching due to the accumulated residual matter. Be sure to clean your bottom with a soft toilet paper.
Being excessively clean may also have an adverse effect. Do not wipe vigorously or apply deodorants to your bottom. Deodorants and sprays infiltrate and destroy the protective oily layer in the perianal region.
Super tight underwear is a disservice to your genitalia. Tight-fitting fabric impedes humidity and moisture circulation down there. Stuffy underwear causes sogginess of the perianal region, softening the skin and causing it to break. It will greatly help to wear cotton undergarments for their excellent moisture absorption. Perfume in garments will also adversly affect your anal skin.
It is natural to react to an itch. However, excessive scratching of your butt only breaks your skin and causes pruritus ani.
Mental Factors
Psychological imbalances such as depression, stress, and anxiety may escalate anal itching. When you are stressed, you may experience an outrageous urge to scratch your butt.
Diet and Medication
Pepper often causes an urge to scratch the anal region. Chocolates, spicy meals, citrus fruits, nuts, beer, and tomatoes largely trip the urge to scratch oneself down there.
Excessive caffeine also causes the anal muscles to slacken and could result in stool leakage.
Laxatives may also cause anal itching, loose stool and increased bowel movement.
Strong antibiotics can fight off the useful bacteria in your colorectum, thus causing pruritus ani. These bacteria maintain a homeostatic balance between the inside and outside of your anus.
Systemic Causes
Some conditions affecting your whole body may cause pruritus ani. They include: