Rectal or anal pain can also occur with inflammatory diseases of the bowel, localized infections, or minor injuries to the area. Some causes of rectal pain, such as hemorrhoids or anal fissures, can be accompanied by other symptoms like blood in the stool or bleeding. Diarrhea or constipation may also be present. An anal fissure is a small tear or crack in the lining of the anus. It may occur when passing large or hard stools, straining during childbirth, or experiencing bouts of diarrhea. An anal fissure can cause sharp pain and bleeding during and after bowel movements. It may also cause itching and burning in the anal area. Common causes of rectal itching include: Poor cleaning of the area after a bowel movement. Itching and discomfort may occur when pieces of stool become trapped in skin folds around the anus. Medicines, especially medicines that cause diarrhea or constipation, such as antibiotics.