Delicate matter!

[Pa234aw]

As we know, B12 deficiency causes a number of symptoms, but has anyone suffered from a very itchy bottom, that’s not attributable to piles (Haemorrhoids) or other conditions more recognised in that area?

I believe the medical term is Pruritus Ani and it can feel like the nerve endings are raw, and there are a lot of nerves down there!

It’s something I’ve suffered with in and off since I was diagnosed with B12 deficiency just over a year ago. It could be coincidental or causal. I’ve done some Googling and vitamin deficiency, including B, could be one of many reasons for the itching.

Neither my GP or a colorectal consultant I’ve seen have been drawn to the possible link but I plan to raise it with the consultant again in a couple of weeks. Steroid creams have helped a little.

I appreciate that this possibly an embarrassing matter that others may not want to comment on.

Thanks.

[Wwwdot]

Hi Pa234aw

When I was B12 and vitamin D deficient I had itches everywhere and even worse after a shower - it was as if my skin suddenly prickled all over it was unbearable sometimes. Both B vitamins and D are at good levels now and i don’t experience this any more. I also had terrible itching around an old c section scar even though it was 20 years ago - this has cleared up too. I was given a steroid cream but it made no difference and prolonged use thins the skin.

So sounds to me like you could be on the right track thinking vitamin deficiency or imbalance.

🤗🤗🤗

[HeartyGilly]

when I need a B12 jab I experience itching just under my right shoulder blade and in my left ear!

[Ghound]

Hi, don't worry, no need to be embarrassed or apologise, we all have bottoms ( mine larger than I'd like 😉)

As you've already consulted doctors about it, I'd agree it could be linked to B12 deficiency.

Like HeartyGilly , I've had itching, numbness and strange sensations in the most odd places.

The thing I find most incredible, is feeling pain in the opposite arm injection site from the one that's actually being injected into !

Hope you get some relief soon, itch is horrible !

( and you can't really scratch in public ! 😱 ...😂 ) xx

[Littlelodge123]

your symptoms could be linked to SIBO which coexists with PA and caused by translocation of gut bacteria. If you have gut symptoms (bloating/pain/etc) you may want to ask to be tested.

[WIZARD6787]

I had experienced that a bit before my diagnosis. It became severe until I started injecting 3 times a day.

One thing that gave me some relief was Epsom Salt baths. Epsom Salts are magnesium sulfate.

[Sleepybunny]

Hi,

I found articles that might be of interest when I searched online for "pruritis B12 deficiency" and "pruritis ani B12 deficiency".

Patient Info article about Pruritis Ani.

patient.info/skin-condition...

[Oneash]

Hi I've got all sorts of itches, psoriasis and stuff. I remembered cyclists itchy bum issues, so I tried good old Vaseline petroleum jelly the other night and it helped a lot.