What causes itching next to testicles?

Itching next to the testicles may be related to local moisture, allergic reactions, fungal infections, pubic lice or contact dermatitis. Symptoms usually include skin itching, redness, swelling or scaling, which can be relieved by keeping clean and applying topical medications.

1. Partial moisture

Wearing non-breathable underwear for a long time or sitting for a long time may cause increased sweating in the perineum. The local moist environment can easily irritate the skin and cause itching. It is recommended to choose pure cotton breathable underwear to avoid sitting for long periods of time and keep them dry after washing with warm water every day. If there is slight redness and swelling, you can use calamine lotion to relieve it as directed by your doctor.

2. Allergic reaction

Contact with items such as detergent residue, new underwear material, or condoms may trigger an allergic reaction, causing an itchy rash on the skin next to the testicles. Suspected allergenic items must be stopped immediately and the affected area rinsed with water. If symptoms persist, you can take oral loratadine tablets or topical hydrocortisone butyrate cream as directed by your doctor.

3. Fungal infection

Fungal infections such as Candida albicans are common in people with diabetes or low immunity and manifest as annular erythema accompanied by severe itching. Diagnosis requires a scurf microscopy. Treatment can be followed by miconazole nitrate cream or bifonazole cream as directed by your doctor, along with oral fluconazole capsules. It is necessary to avoid scratching daily to prevent the spread.

4. Pubic lice disease

Pubic louse bites, which are transmitted through sexual contact or shared clothing, can cause severe itching and can be seen as large, gray-blue spots with pinpoint tips. Pubic hair needs to be shaved and sulfur ointment applied all over the body, and underwear needs to be disinfected with boiling water. Sexual partners need to be treated simultaneously, and if necessary, use benzyl benzoate liniment to kill the eggs.

5. Contact dermatitis

Contact with chemical substances such as pesticides and hair dyes may cause local skin inflammation, resulting in clear-demarcated erythema and blisters accompanied by burning and itching. In the acute stage, cold wet compresses with normal saline can be used, topical mometasone furoate cream can be used as directed by the doctor, and ebastine tablets can be taken orally in severe cases. Avoid contact with allergens again during the recovery period.

Daily care should be taken to keep the perineum clean and dry to avoid secondary infection caused by scratching. Wear loose, breathable cotton underwear and rinse off detergent thoroughly when washing. If the itching lasts for more than 1 week, or symptoms such as ulceration or fever appear, you must go to a dermatologist in time to check for eczema, psoriasis and other potential diseases. Avoid using strong hormone ointments on your own, and a clear diagnosis is required before use.