An anal yeast infection often starts with persistent and intense anal itching , also called pruritus ani. A doctor can perform a quick physical exam to determine the cause, such as hygiene, hemorrhoids , or a yeast infection. If the diagnosis is an anal yeast infection, it can often be cleared up easily with simple treatments. A yeast infection is caused by an overgrowth of the fungus Candida. When you have an anal yeast infection, you may experience intense symptoms for a few days followed by milder symptoms. An anal yeast infection can easily spread to the nearby penis in men or vagina in women. Although treatments for yeast infections are typically marketed for vaginal yeast infections, they can also be used to treat anal yeast infections.

Anal itch, also known as pruritus ani, is an irritating, itchy sensation around the anus the opening through which stool passes out of the body. Anal itch is a symptom, not an illness, and it can have many different causes. In most cases, a person with anal itch does not have a disease of the anus or rectum.

Medically reviewed by Drugs. Last updated on May 31, Anal itch, also known as pruritus ani, is an irritating, itchy sensation around the anus the opening through which stool passes out of the body. Anal itch is a symptom, not an illness, and it can have many different causes.