A medical expert has shared three potential reasons why you might have an itchy bum, one of which could be a sign of a "silent killer".
Finding yourself with a bottom you just can't stop scratching is an all-too-common experience, and yet all too often many will feel too embarrassed to open up about it, no matter how much discomfort they might find themselves in.
With this in mind, a doctor has urged people not to ignore a persistent itch on their backside, and has instead encouraged them to seek help from their GP, who will undoubtedly have "heard it all before".
GP Dr Sarah Garsed told The Sun: "While many people don't talk openly about this symptom - usually for fear of embarrassment - experiencing itching of the bum is very common and can be a sign of something as simple as what you ate the night before, or as complicated as infection."
1. Stress and anxiety
Feeling stressed and anxious for a prolonged period of time can result in inflammation, leading to an irritated gut and, by connection, bum.
As difficult as dealing with such feelings can be, you can work to alleviate stress by exercising, meditating, and of course trying to get a better night's sleep.
2. Diabetes
As outlined by Dr Sarah, there are two main types of diabetes, Type 1 and Type 2. Those with Type 1, whereby the pancreas is unable to make a hormone known as insulin, usually have it from birth.
Type 2 sufferers will usually develop diabetes later on in life, and will find that their cells aren't responding properly to insulin, causing the blood sugar to rise.
Diabetes, especially when paired with the poor circulation that often accompanies the condition, can result in unpleasant itchiness around the bottom area.
Sometimes referred to as the "silent killer", many won't know that they're at risk of developing type 2, which can result in complications such as strokes, kidney disease, and heart failure.
3. Diet
The food you eat can irritate your bum, and may well exacerbate any existing anal itch. Spicy foods, citrus fruits such as oranges, and dairy products can all lead to scratching, as can drinks that lead to dehydration and gut issues such as coffee, alcohol, and fizzy drinks.
For those who consume lots of this sort of food, Dr Sarah suggests removing one item every few days, to help zone in on the root cause of your itch.
Those who find themselves suffering an anal itch for more than a few days are advised to consult with their GP, especially if the discomfort is accompanied by bleeding and severe pain, or if it's having a notable impact on your daily life.
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