What causes dampness and itching in the scrotum, and what should be done about it?
Sep 24, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
Certain skincare products, detergents, and similar items may trigger inflammatory reactions upon skin contact due to individual sensitivity, leading to redness, papules, and causing intense itching and dryness of the scrotal skin. Recommended treatments from doctors include avoiding known allergens or irritants and using medications such as hydrocortisone cream to reduce inflammation and relieve itching.
Under normal circumstances, dampness and itching in the scrotal area may be caused by tight clothing, high temperature with excessive sweating, scrotal eczema, contact dermatitis, or tinea cruris (jock itch). If abnormalities occur, timely medical consultation is recommended. Detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Tight Clothing
Tight garments restrict air circulation around the scrotum, preventing sweat from evaporating effectively. This increases local moisture and temperature, creating favorable conditions for bacterial or fungal growth, which can lead to itching. Switching to loose, breathable underwear and clothing, and keeping the scrotal area dry, can help alleviate symptoms.
2. High Temperature and Excessive Sweating
In hot environments, the body cools itself through sweating to maintain thermal balance. When sweat accumulates around the scrotum, it not only increases humidity but may also promote bacterial or fungal proliferation, resulting in itching. Keeping the scrotal area dry and well-ventilated, changing underwear frequently, choosing breathable cotton underwear, and avoiding tight pants are recommended. Talcum powder or similar products may also be used to reduce heat and moisture and relieve itching.
3. Scrotal Eczema
Scrotal eczema may be triggered by genetic factors, infections, or other causes, and typically presents with redness, swelling, oozing, and itching of the scrotal skin. Symptoms can be managed under medical guidance using medications such as fluocinonide acetate ointment, calamine lotion, or zinc oxide ointment.
4. Contact Dermatitis
Certain skincare products, detergents, or other substances may trigger inflammatory skin reactions due to individual sensitivity, leading to erythema, papules, intense itching, and dryness in the scrotal area. It is important to avoid known allergens or irritants. Under medical supervision, topical treatments such as hydrocortisone cream, triamcinolone acetonide cream, or oral antihistamines like fexofenadine tablets may be used to reduce inflammation and relieve itching.
5. Tinea Cruris (Jock Itch)
Tinea cruris is a fungal skin infection that may affect the scrotal area, causing dampness, itching, redness, swelling, pain, and other signs of infection. Antifungal medications such as clotrimazole cream or terbinafine cream should be used as directed by a physician. In cases with secondary bacterial infection, antibacterial agents such as erythromycin ointment or mupirocin ointment may also be prescribed to control the infection.
In daily life, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, improving dietary habits, adhering to regular作息 (sleep-wake cycles), and enhancing overall physical health can help reduce susceptibility to disease.
