What causes men’s scrotal itching?

Scrotal itching may be caused by scrotal eczema, tinea cruris, contact dermatitis, neurodermatitis, pubic lice, etc. It can be relieved by local cleaning, drug treatment, and avoiding irritation.

1. Scrotal eczema

Scrotal eczema may be related to local moisture, sweating, allergic constitution and other factors, and usually manifests as erythema, papules, exudation and other symptoms. Patients can follow the doctor's advice to use glucocorticoids such as hydrocortisone butyrate cream, mometasone furoate cream, halomethasone cream, or oral antihistamines such as loratadine tablets and cetirizine hydrochloride tablets. It is necessary to keep the area dry and clean daily and avoid scratching.

2. Tinea cruris

Tinea cruris is caused by fungal infection and often presents as annular erythema with scaling and obvious itching. Patients can follow the doctor's advice for topical antifungal drugs such as bifonazole cream, miconazole nitrate cream, terbinafine cream, etc. In severe cases, oral itraconazole capsules are required. Wear breathable cotton underwear every day and avoid sharing clothing with others.

3. Contact dermatitis

Contact dermatitis is usually caused by contact with detergents, chemical fiber materials and other irritants, and manifests as well-defined erythema and edema. The patient needs to get rid of the allergen immediately and use calamine lotion and compound dexamethasone acetate cream as directed by the doctor. In severe cases, short-term oral prednisone tablets can be used. Use mild, non-irritating cleaning products every day.

4. Neurodermatitis

Neurodermatitis is related to mental stress and repeated scratching, and is characterized by skin thickening and lichen-like changes. Patients can use compound flumetasone ointment, clobetasol propionate cream, and oral methylcobalamin tablets to nourish the nerves as directed by the doctor. It is necessary to reduce anxiety and avoid excessive rubbing of the affected area.

5. Pubic lice

Pubic pediculosis is caused by a parasitic infection and is characterized by severe itching and visible lice eggs. Patients need to shave their pubic hair, use acacia tincture or benzyl benzoate cream to eliminate lice, and their underwear needs to be boiled and disinfected. Sexual partners need to be treated simultaneously to prevent cross-infection.

It is recommended to wear loose, breathable cotton underwear and avoid prolonged sitting and high temperature environments. Wash the perineum with warm water every day and dry it thoroughly. Avoid scalding with alkaline soap or hot water. The diet should be light and reduce the intake of spicy and irritating foods. If the itching persists or is accompanied by skin ulceration or exudation, you should seek medical attention promptly to determine the cause. Do not use strong hormone ointments on your own for a long time to avoid adverse reactions such as skin atrophy.