Anal itching

Anal itching (Pruritus ani) is a very common symptom and can have various causes that should be clarified by a doctor. It can be diagnosed and treated by ZweiChirurgen at our centre for proctology in Switzerland in Basel, Zurich and Liestal.

The most common cause is small skin lesions on the anus, e.g. caused by very intensive wiping with normal toilet paper. Sometimes a little blood can also be seen on the toilet paper. These skin tears then become inflamed, excrete secretions and thus moisturize the otherwise dry skin on the anus. This results in the typical burning and itching of the anal skin, which is then further aggravated by further wiping. Other causes of itching can be infections with parasites (worms) or primary skin diseases (e.g. eczema, psoriasis).