Anal itching is a common condition. The itch, situated in or around your anus, is often intense and may be accompanied by a strong urge to scratch. Anal itching has many possible causes, such as skin problems, hemorrhoids, infection, diet, etc.
Treatment
• Cleanse gently. After bowel movements, clean the area with plain water or mild soap. Don’t scrub. The goal is to keep the area clean without further irritating the skin. After cleansing, pat the area dry with toilet paper or a towel. Or use a hair dryer set on low.
• Don’t scratch. Scratching further irritates your skin and leads to persistent inflammation. You may find some relief by applying a cold compress to the area or taking a lukewarm bath.
• Wear cotton underwear and loose clothing. This helps keep the area dry. Avoid wearing pantyhose and other tightfitting garments because these can trap moisture.
• Avoid irritants. Avoid bubble baths, genital deodorants, perfumed soaps, moist wipes, witch hazel products and other items that might irritate the anal area.
• Eat foods high in fiber, such as cereals, fruits and vegetables. Some foods may make your itchy bottom worse. Cut back on or avoid coffee, cola, alcohol, citrus fruits, chocolate, spicy foods, tomatoes.
• Protect your skin from moisture by applying a thin layer of a zinc oxide ointment or petroleum jelly. You could also use a 1 percent corticosteroid cream two or three times a day to relieve itching. But don’t use this type of cream for more than two weeks because of possible side effects, such as thinning of the skin.
• If doctor identifies the cause of anal itching, such as a bacterial infection or skin condition, it will also need to be treated for your itchy bottom to be properly managed. For example, a bacterial infection may need to be treated with antibiotics. If the underlying cause is left untreated, your itchy bottom may return. An itchy bottom in children is often caused by worms. If treatment for worms is recommended, other family members with the same symptom should also be treated.
References
http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/anal-itching/basics/lifestyle-home-remedies/con-20023539
http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/itchybottom/Pages/Treatment.aspx
