Eczema is of different types and scrotal eczema is one of them that only affects the male population. It is because, the main area affected is the scrotum and it refers to the male reproductive organ located under the penis, also known as the testicles.
Basic definition: When an inflammatory skin disease – eczema, captures the male reproductive organ for any cause, then it is termed as scrotal eczema.
As per the study by the National Eczema Association, around 1 in 10 people are estimated to develop eczema once in the whole lifetime. Although, scrotal eczema is a condition that is typically overlooked by dermatologists as it might be misunderstood as another skin condition.
Scrotal Eczema Stages
4 Stages of scrotal eczema –
- Stage 1
It is the mild start of eczema in the scrotum of the male body. This type can be explained as mild, acute, and dry. This condition will affect the individual for a few days or weeks and then might disappear on its own.
- Stage 2
When the condition turns to be more severe and chronic, it will be categorized under stage 2. In this condition, the thighs and the skin under the penis are mainly affected. The scrotum is hypopigmented and scaly.
- Stage 3
In this stage, more region of the skin gets affected i.e. whole scrotum and the inner side of the thighs. Some main recognizable symptoms include oozing, visible blood vessels in that area, and maceration.
- Stage 4
This is the last stage of scrotal eczema. In this stage, the scrotal skin becomes swollen. There is a fluid and pus discharge with a foul smell. Therefore, this stage causes extreme pain.
Causes
Well, it’s hard to explain the main cause of scrotal eczema as it is still not known by medical science. But there are certain reasons that can be the cause for the development of this condition in males. However, each individual gets affected due to distinct reasoning, therefore, causing the root cause to vary from person to person.
The skin of the scrotum is way more sensitive than other parts of the skin. Due to this, it becomes more vulnerable to toxins and other irritants to attack. Here are some factors that can trigger its development:
- History of allergies or asthma
- Hereditary
- Skin infection
- Mental stress and anxiety
- Humidity
- Products like soap, detergent, or fabric scrotum, thus causing itchy scrotum
Scrotal Eczema Symptoms
A complete list of symptoms about what signs can be seen or felt in scrotal eczema is shared below. Take a look at it to understand it better. This will help with diagnosis. Also, after examining the symptoms and experience of the patient, in Ayurvedic treatment for Scrotal eczema or Scrotal dermatitis, proper patient care is provided.
- Redness on scrotum skin
- Itchy balls
- Burning sensation
- Dry and sensitivity
- Inflamed and discoloration
- Rough, scaly skin
- Swelling
- Sores may appear on the scrotum
Solution for Scrotal Eczema
To make sure that the individual is suffering from scrotal eczema and not other lookalike skin disease i.e. fungal infection, the dermatologist will take a tiny sample of your skin from that area and send it to the laboratory for further tests.
In case of positive reports, here are some tips for scrotal eczema treatment at home:
Hygiene is important
Maintaining hygiene during the treatment process is not just it. One needs to look after it as a daily basis priority. Similarly, in the case of scrotal eczema, men need to highly understand the importance of hygiene down there. It will help with better recovery and further prevention of bacteria.
Sometimes, the scrotum gets itchy and the itchy testicles make it hard for the one to keep their hands off of it and not scratch. Therefore, specialists suggest that men should regularly trim their nails and wear gloves in severe cases. This will help with the prevention of scratch cuts.
The best quick trick to ease the itch is either to take a cool bath or opt for the cold compress method.
Coconut oil
Coconut oil for scrotal eczema is the foremost choice. The continuous itch in that region is due to dryness and to cover it, the best one can do is – keep it moisturized. Also, what’s best other than coconut oil for skin moisturization?
Apply a generous amount, lightly massage it, and voila! it’s done. This will automatically provide relief from the constant urge to itch as well.
Don’t let stress worsen the condition
Stress related to any concerning topic, be it the disease itself is bad. It will not allow the body to heal internally rather it can skyrocket the symptoms. There are various ways out there to free the mind from mental tension. However, the best & most effective way is – find yourself.
Every individual feels mentally and emotionally safe and relaxed in different ways so it’s better to find what’s best for one themselves. Some suggestions –
- Yoga
- Meditation
- Deep breathing
- Connecting with nature
- Talking to close ones
- Dancing the stress out
Stay away from triggers
The most important thing to keep in mind while trying to recover from scrotal eczema is, avoid its triggers. Otherwise, it will lead to opposite results. Some common ones are –
- Avoid scratching
- Avoid tight, non-breathable clothes
- Try not to step out in hot and humid temperatures
- Give up on harsh soaps, detergents, and fragrance products
- Stay away from the things with which the body catches allergies
Choose right clothing
Even if the favorite pair of pants is not appropriate for the scrotum region to heal, try not to wear it. The friction and irritation can make it uncomfortable. Always go for loose clothing, 100% cotton, from which the skin can easily breathe. This will also prevent sweating and an increased urge to itch.
Oatmeal bath – a great idea
Oatmeal bath is also a great remedy to lessen the itch. Here’s what to do:
- Add oatmeal to lukewarm bath water. If someone is running out of oatmeal, make one at home by grinding the oats in the powdery form.
- Mix the oatmeal in the water well.
- Sit in the tub and soak the body for at least 15-20 minutes.
- Pat dry the body.
- Moisturize the skin and done.
Caution: In addition to this information, one must keep in mind that home remedies are just to ease the symptoms or prevent the disease. They are not the actual cure for any disease. So, do consult the doctor first.
Conclusion
Most men feel ashamed and cancel their appointments with doctors but one thing that everyone must know is, running away or hiding is not the solution. Doctors are health experts who understand the human body in depth and only they can provide us with the best treatment to manage the disease. Scrotal eczema and dermatitis are not pretty common but it can adversely affect health. Better treat it on time and free the body from such skin disorders.