What causes scrotal itching?
Sep 07, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
In most cases, scrotal itching is caused by dry skin, sweat irritation, scrotal eczema, contact dermatitis, or tinea cruris. Excessive washing, frequent use of soap, or hot water rinsing may lead to dryness of the scrotal skin, resulting in itching and discomfort. It is recommended to use mild cleansing products and avoid excessive bathing.
Generally, scrotal itching is caused by factors such as dry skin, sweat irritation, scrotal eczema, contact dermatitis, or tinea cruris (jock itch). If abnormalities occur, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment. Specific causes are analyzed as follows:
1. Dry Skin
Excessive washing, frequent use of soap, or hot water cleansing may lead to dryness of the scrotal skin, resulting in itching and discomfort. It is advisable to use mild cleansers and avoid over-bathing.
2. Sweat Irritation
In hot weather or after intense physical activity, sweating in the scrotal area is common. The salts and bacteria in sweat may irritate the skin and cause itching. Wearing breathable cotton underwear and avoiding tight-fitting clothing can help. Applying baby powder or specialized anti-itch powders containing zinc oxide may assist in absorbing moisture and reducing friction.
3. Scrotal Eczema
Scrotal eczema may be triggered by genetic factors, infections, or other causes, primarily manifesting as redness, swelling, oozing, and itching of the scrotal skin. Symptoms can be managed under medical guidance with medications such as fluocinonide acetate ointment, calamine lotion, or zinc oxide ointment.
4. Contact Dermatitis
This is an inflammatory skin condition caused by direct contact with external substances. Inflammatory stimulation leads to erythema, papules, severe itching of the scrotum, and dry skin. Patients may follow medical advice to use topical corticosteroids such as hydrocortisone cream or triamcinolone acetonide cream, or antihistamines like fexofenadine tablets to reduce inflammation and relieve itching.
5. Tinea Cruris (Jock Itch)
Tinea cruris is a fungal skin infection that may spread to the scrotal area, causing itching along with symptoms of infection such as redness, swelling, pain, and warmth. Under medical supervision, antifungal agents such as clotrimazole cream or terbinafine cream may be used. In cases with secondary bacterial infection, antibacterial ointments such as erythromycin ointment or mupirocin ointment may be prescribed to control the infection.
It is recommended to maintain cleanliness and dryness of the scrotal area in daily life. At the same time, excessive washing of the area should be avoided, as this may damage the skin barrier and increase the risk of infection.
