Itchy bottom: when to get help

1. 1

   Is any of this happening now?

   Call 911

   Seek emergency help for heavy or continuing bleeding, black tar-like bowel movements, fainting or severe weakness.

   Other emergency signs, for anyone

   • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
   • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
   • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
   • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
   • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
   • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
   • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
   • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these
2. 2

   Is any of this happening?

   Be seen today

   Seek same-day medical care if you develop increasing pain with fever, a hot or swollen lump, or pus draining near the anus.

   These can be signs of an abscess, which is a pocket of infection.

   These symptoms need urgent assessment even if itching is also present.

   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these
3. 3

   Does any of this apply?

   Book an appointment

   Arrange a routine appointment if the itching does not settle with careful self-care, keeps returning or interferes with sleep.

   You should also book an appointment if you have:

   • Bleeding, mucus or bowel leakage
   • A new lump, rash, sore or change in skin colour
   • Pain during bowel movements
   • A lasting change in bowel habits
   • Possible threadworms that have not responded to pharmacy advice
   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Itchy bottom. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.