Why is the scrotum always itchy?

Scrotal itching may be related to factors such as poor local hygiene, allergic reactions, fungal infections, eczema, or pubic lice. It is recommended to seek medical treatment promptly to determine the cause of the disease and avoid scratching from aggravating the symptoms.

1. Poor local hygiene

The scrotal skin has many wrinkles and poor air permeability, and accumulation of sweat can easily breed bacteria. It needs to be washed with warm water every day, choose pure cotton breathable underwear, and avoid sitting for a long time or wearing tight pants. Apply calamine lotion to relieve itching after cleansing and keeping it dry.

2. Allergic reaction

Contact dermatitis can occur from contact with allergenic substances such as laundry detergent, condoms, or new underwear. It manifests as well-circumscribed erythema with severe itching. It is necessary to stop using the suspected allergen, and use triamcinolone acetonide econazole cream or desonide cream as directed by your doctor for a short period of time.

3. Fungal infection

Tinea cruris is common in the groin and scrotum. It is caused by Trichophyton rubrum infection and presents as ring-shaped scaling plaques. Bifonazole cream or miconazole nitrate powder can be used externally, and in severe cases, itraconazole capsules can be taken orally. It is necessary to wash clothes separately from family members’ clothes to avoid infection.

4. Scrotal eczema

Chronic eczema can cause skin thickening, lichenification, and significant itching at night. For exudation in the acute stage, wet compresses with boric acid solution can be used, and in the chronic stage, halometasone cream can be used. Avoid washing in hot water. Stress may aggravate symptoms.

5. Pubic lice parasitism

Pubic lice bites can cause intense itching, and gray-white eggs can be seen attached to the pubic hair. Pubic hair needs to be shaved and completely eliminated with sulfur ointment, and sexual partners need to be treated simultaneously. Used bed linens and clothing need to be disinfected at high temperature.

Spicy food and alcohol stimulation should be avoided on a daily basis, and the bath water temperature should not exceed 40°C. If the itching persists for more than two weeks, ulceration or swollen lymph nodes appear, a dermatologist is required to rule out the possibility of malignant tumors. Diabetic patients need to be more alert to the risk of secondary infections.