The itching may become worse at night or after a bowel movement. Scratching the area results in further irritation and makes the itching worse instead of relieving it. Scratching with the fingernails may result in skin damage or an infection. If the itch-scratch cycle persists, it can lead to extreme discomfort, soreness, and burning. Pruritus ani is about 4 times more likely to occur in men than in women.
Sometimes anal cancer causes no symptoms at all. But bleeding is often the first sign of the disease. The bleeding is usually minor. At first, most people assume the bleeding is caused by hemorrhoids painful, swollen veins in the anus and rectum that may bleed. They are a benign and fairly common cause of rectal bleeding. Most often these types of symptoms are more likely to be caused by benign non-cancer conditions, like hemorrhoids, anal fissures, or anal warts. The American Cancer Society medical and editorial content team.
Anal itching, or pruritus ani, is a common symptom of a variety of conditions. Most cases of anal itching can be treated at home without needing to see a doctor. We go over the possible causes, along with at-home remedies to relieve itching. The causes of anal itching are often related to skin or internal medical issues. Skin-related causes of an itchy anus include:.
Jump to content. Top of the page Check Your Symptoms. Rectal problems are common. Almost everyone will experience some rectal itching, pain, or bleeding at some time during his or her life. These problems are often minor and may go away on their own or with home treatment.