Internal itching refers to any itch that occurs in a body cavity or body orifice. Unlike a standard itch, which occurs on the skin and is therefore easy to tackle with one’s fingernail, an internal itch can occur in a nasal cavity, the mouth, the anus, or the vagina. It’s therefore harder to alleviate. Plus the causes tend to be more complex.

Internal itching in the nasal cavity or mouth, for instance, is typically associated with an infection, such as a cold, or a simple allergy. There are, however, more than 50 medical conditions known to cause a nasal itch, and more than 160 associated with an oral itch. The most common include allergies, infections, dry skin, bites and stings, chronic diseases, and ulcers. In case an individual is unsure about what caused his itch, the best recommendation is to visit a doctor.

When internal itching occurs in the anal cavity, it indicates that there’s an inflammation around the skin at the bottom of the rectum. It’s most commonly caused by diarrhea, especially after an individual has developed food poisoning after eating spoiled food or has eaten especially spicy food. It’s also associated with pinworms, hemorrhoids, and the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). There are, in fact, more than 70 listed medical causes. Though food poisoning is the most common reason for internal itching in the anus, there is a chance it could be an infectious diarrheal illness as well.

Vaginal itching is a form of internal itching wherein a woman experiences irritation in her vagina. It’s traditionally associated with vaginal infections, such as a yeast infection, or a sexually transmitted disease (STD). Chemical irritants, menopause, stress, contraceptives, and pinworms, however, can also cause vaginal itching. Usually, internal itching in the vagina gets better on its own. If, however, it continues or it disappears and then returns, it’s very likely the woman is suffering from a serious condition.

There are some home treatments for internal itching in the vagina, but they only apply for mild conditions, such as a yeast infection. In general, women should avoid scented douches or toilet paper, wear panties that have no synthetic fibers, and always use a condom. Ideally, though, a woman should avoid any sexual activity while experiencing itching.

In the case the itching was brought on from a severe condition, doctors will typically prescribe either a topical or oral medication. For example, vaginosis and STDs are usually treated with antibiotics, while yeast infections are treated with antifungal creams. Other medicines might include estrogen cream, estrogen tablets, and steroid lotions.