In Latin means ‘itchy anus’. One of the most common causes is excessive moisture in the anal area. Other common reasons are hemorrhoids, anal fissures, or anal fistulas. In some people it may be caused by eating certain foods, smoking, and drinking alcoholic beverages, especially beer and wine.

Other food and beverage associations: coffee, tea, carbonated beverages, milk products, tomatoes and tomato-based products such as ketchup, cheese, chocolate, nuts

Inadequate hygiene is a seldom cause. Soaps and lotions and scents can be irritating. Trauma to the anal skin from aggressive cleaning can destroy the natural barriers and make the problem worse.

Many times, no specific problem is found to be causing the symptoms of itching and burning.

Treatment: Do not use soap in the anal area.

Do not scrub the anal area.

For hygiene, it is best to rinse with warm water. Do not aggressively scrub the area. Avoid scratching the itchy area. Avoid moisture in the anal area and achieve clean and dry skin. Only use medications prescribed by a physician.

Patients may need to make long-term lifestyle changes to remain symptom-free.

(Simplified from Patient Eduction Brochures of The American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons)