Rectal itching is normally a symptom that produces a strong urgency to scratch the area around your anus, and often leads to a smelly bottom. The condition is sometimes the result of a skin condition such as eczema, a bacterial infection, or even hemorrhoids. More often, it is just a matter of sweat and poor hygiene. If you are noticing an offending odor and asking "why does my butt smell?" then you'll have to take some corrective measures to avoid any embarrassment as a result.
Why Does My Butt Smell?
1. Sweat and Poor Hygiene
The eccrine glands around the anus produce odorless sweat. However, if you also have poor hygiene, this sweat can mix with bacteria or fecal matter resulting in a foul odor. More importantly, if the sweat is allowed to build up over a period of time, bacteria and germs will accumulate, leading to maceration or chronic itching that leads to a secondary infection. Cleanliness is key to avoiding this sweat from becoming a real problem. You will want to make sure that you have thoroughly cleaned up after any bowel movement or excessive sweating.
2. Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids are a common ailment, and some people have had to deal with the discomfort, itching, and bleeding that can signal the presence of hemorrhoids. Even the tiniest amount of feces can irritate hemorrhoids, and itching in the perianal area is one of the most common symptoms.Furthermore, external hemorrhoids sometimes keep the anus from closing completely, which can allow some leakage, creating an unpleasant odor.
3. IBS
Irritable bowel syndrome, a digestive disorder, is typically identified as an abnormal increase in the mobility of the intestines, and this disorder is common in about 50% of all gastrointestinal problems. There is no disease present, and only the function of the intestines is affected. However, common symptoms include:
- Gastrointestinalgas
- Bloating
- Cramps and abdominal pain
- Mucus in the stool
- Alternating bouts of constipation and diarrhea
IBS can sometimes be a chronic condition; however, for most people there will be times when the symptoms are worse, and times when they can disappear altogether.
4. Proctitis
When asking "why does my butt smell" proctitis could be the cause. Proctitis is an inflammation of the rectum lining, and is common in people who have inflammatory bowel diseases. Other causes may include sexually transmitted infections and symptoms can be temporary, or become chronic. It can cause rectal pain, along with a continuous sensation that you need to have a bowel movement, rectal bleeding, and pain on the left side of your abdomen.
5. Gluten Intolerance
Gluten is a protein found primarily in grains such as wheat, rye, barley and cross contaminated oats. If a person has gluten intolerance, this protein can cause digestive problems such as abdominal pain, gassiness, or diarrhea. The same symptoms are associated with celiac disease, so it's important to get the correct diagnosis.
6. Ulcerative Colitis
A disease that causes inflammation and ulcers in the lining of the large intestine is called ulcerative colitis, and usually affects the lower section of the colon and rectum. Symptoms could include blood and pus in stools, abdominal cramping and pain, and a sensation of an urgent need to defecate. Some patients experience fever, diarrhea, and weight loss.
7. Antibiotics
Medicines that kill bacteria are called antibiotics, and antibiotics can also cause Clostridium difficile colitis, a swelling and irritation of the colon. Antibiotic associated diarrhea and infection are frequent complications of antibiotic therapy because the antibiotics kill the normal bacteria in your intestine, and allow the bad bacteria to grow unabated. Symptoms include fever, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps.
WARNING
To get the most accurate answer for "why does my butt smell" see your doctor. Always consult and report any sudden change in bowel habits or unusual odors to your health care provider to rule out any health conditions that need immediate attention. This is only a partial list of possible causes, and there are many others that may present a life threatening condition such as colon cancer.
How to Deal With Butt Smell
The first line of defensefor a smelly bottom is proper hygiene.Daily bathing along with a thorough cleaning after a bowel movement is critical.Other helpful hints include:
1. Bathe with an Antiperspirant Gel or Soap
Antiperspirant body washes and gels get rid of the dirt, bacteria and odor from your body. Make sure you lather up and scrub your bottom well, including your butt crack, anus, and groin using a clean washcloth to prevent odor from returning when you sweat. Make sure you use a clean washcloth and towel daily.
2. Shave Between Your Butt
Shaving the hairs between your butt can help eliminate the places where bacteria, fungus, and odor can accumulate when you sweat. You'll have to do this on a regular basis to ensure your bottom smells fresh throughout the day.
3. Try Apple Cider Vinegar
Natural apple cider vinegar kills bacteria and fungus. Apply it after you have bathed and thoroughly dried yourselfby using a cotton ball to rub into your butt crack and cheeks to neutralize any lingering odor. The vinegar smell will dissipate after a short period of time.
4. Watch Your Diet
Why does my butt smell? Controlling what you eat can also help avoid unpleasant odor. The worst offender is red meat, followed closely behind with garlic, onions, coffee, and caffeinated beverages. Other foods to avoid are fatty foods, fried foods, processed foods, and refined sugars. If you have a fishy smelling odor, you may have trouble processing choline. This nutrient is found in fish products, eggs, beans and liver. Lastly, if your body odor is severe, you should abstain from alcohol and tobacco use.