What causes inguinal inflammation?

Nov 05, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Lei
Introduction
In general, inflammation in the groin area may be caused by frequent local friction, inadequate hygiene, inguinal lymphadenitis, groin eczema, or incarcerated inguinal hernia. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive symptomatic treatment under a doctor's guidance. In daily life, avoid prolonged sitting, get up and move around regularly, and reduce pressure on the groin area.

Under normal circumstances, inflammation in the groin area may be caused by frequent local friction, inadequate cleaning, inguinal lymphadenitis, groin eczema, or incarcerated inguinal hernia. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive appropriate treatment under a doctor's guidance. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Frequent Local Friction: Long-term wearing of tight clothing or frequent participation in activities such as running or cycling can lead to repeated friction in the groin area, easily causing redness and inflammation of the skin. It is advisable to switch to loose, breathable cotton clothing to reduce friction. Applying petroleum jelly during exercise can help protect the skin. After cleaning the inflamed area with warm water, keep it dry.

2. Inadequate Cleaning: The groin area has many skin folds where sweat and dirt can accumulate, promoting bacterial growth and resulting in inflammation accompanied by odor and itching. Wash the groin daily with warm water, avoid using irritating body washes, thoroughly dry the area with a clean towel after washing, change underwear regularly, and maintain cleanliness and dryness.

3. Inguinal Lymphadenitis: Infections from the lower limbs or perineal area may spread to the inguinal lymph nodes, causing them to swell and become inflamed, often accompanied by pain. Patients should follow medical advice to take anti-infective medications such as cefuroxime axetil tablets, amoxicillin capsules, or roxithromycin dispersible tablets.

4. Groin Eczema: Moisture, allergies, and other factors may trigger eczema, leading to red patches, papules, itching, and oozing. Scratching may lead to secondary infection. Patients should use medications such as desonide cream, mometasone furoate gel, or loratadine tablets as directed by a physician to relieve symptoms.

5. Incarcerated Inguinal Hernia: When an inguinal hernia protrudes and cannot be pushed back, tissues such as the intestine may become compressed and ischemic, triggering inflammation along with severe pain and abdominal distension. Immediate surgical repair of the inguinal hernia is required to relieve the incarceration and restore blood flow to the bowel. Postoperatively, patients should take medications such as cefaclor capsules, metronidazole tablets, and ibuprofen sustained-release capsules as directed to prevent infection and alleviate pain.

In daily life, avoid prolonged sitting and get up periodically to move around, reducing pressure on the groin area. Choose loose, breathable clothing and avoid synthetic fibers. Limit intake of spicy and irritating foods, consume more fresh fruits and vegetables, enhance skin resistance, and prevent groin inflammation.

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