What to do for itching and crawling sensation around the anal area at night — could it be intestinal worms? - #29231
Hello Doctor, I am feeling itching and a crawling sensation around my anal area, especially at night. It has been happening for a few days. I have not taken any medication yet and I want to know if this could be due to intestinal worms. Can you please guide me on what I should do and whether there are any treatments or precautions I should follow without medication? Thank you.
How long have you been experiencing these symptoms?:
- Less than 1 weekHave you noticed any other symptoms accompanying the itching?:
- NoneIs the itching constant or does it come and go?:
- Comes and goesHave you had any recent changes in your diet or lifestyle?:
- No changesDo you have any known allergies or skin conditions?:
- No known allergiesHow is your overall hygiene routine?:
- Rarely clean the areaHave you been in contact with anyone who has similar symptoms?:
- Not sure100% Anonymously
No sign-up needed.

Doctors' responses
Yes, itching and a crawling sensation around the anus especially at night for a few days is very commonly caused by Pinworm infection, particularly when there are no other symptoms. The worms become active at night and lay eggs around the anal area, which causes intense itching. Poor or infrequent cleaning of the area can increase the risk, but this condition is common and treatable.
You can start with hygiene measures even without medication: wash the anal area with soap and water every morning and after bowel movements, keep the area dry, change underwear daily, trim fingernails short, and avoid scratching because eggs can spread to hands and surfaces. Also wash bedsheets, towels, and underwear in hot water to reduce reinfection.
If the itching continues beyond about 1 week, becomes severe, or other family members develop similar symptoms, treatment with a deworming medicine such as Albendazole is usually recommended as a single dose (often repeated after 2 weeks). This infection is common, not dangerous, and usually clears quickly with proper hygiene and treatment.
100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential. No sign-up needed.
About our doctors
Only qualified doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.