Most of the time, it is the bag of skin around the testicles, known as the scrotum, which is itchy when you have itchy testicles. The skin that folds behind the testicles and in the groin area is also prone to itching.
Normally, an itchy scrotum is not a symptom of a serious health issue. More often than not, an itchy ball sack is more embarrassing and irritating than anything else. However, there are several reasons that you may have itchy testicles, so it is difficult to pinpoint just one. Most of the reasons are simply harmless irritations while a few of them are more serious health issues.
What Are the Possible Causes of Itchy Testicles?
1. Fungal Infections
Fungus grows best in warm, humid climates. This is why the skin folds behind the scrotum make an ideal habitat for fungus to grow. The fungus infections that grow will cause irritation and itchiness.
The most common type of fungal infection that occurs in this region of the scrotum is jock itch. Trichophyton rubrum is the fungus that causes jock itch. Accompanied by a red, scaly rash, the most prominent symptom of jock itch is a severe itch in the crotch region around the testicles, inner thighs, and anus. The simplest way to relieve this itch is with an over-the-counter cream or spray. However, you may need to visit a doctor if the itch and rash do not clear up.
2. Yeast Infection
If you find that the over-the-counter creams and sprays are not working, you may have a yeast infection. The cause of this infection is a fungus called Candida albicans.
It is often thought that women are the only ones who suffer from this type of infection; however, men may contract this infection through sexual contact with an infected partner, or an antibiotic they have taken has destroyed all the good, infection fighting bacteria.
If you have itchy scrotum along with severe irritation, burning, and pain in the groin area, then you may have a yeast infection. There are anti-fungal creams that help clear up this infection as well as oral medications.
3. Contact Dermatitis
After direct contact with an irritant or allergen, the area around the testicles, scrotum, and groin area may become extremely uncomfortable, have a rash, and a severe itch. If these symptoms occur together, then you may have contact dermatitis.
Allergic contact dermatitis is more common in those who already have allergies. It may be caused by fragrances, dyes, plants or other items with which the individual has come into contact. Once the allergen is known, it is best to avoid the item.
The difference between contact dermatitis caused by an irritant and an allergen is that the irritant contact dermatitis tends to be more painful. Irritant contact dermatitis is most commonly caused by a strong chemical or other irritating substance.
4. Pubic Lice or Crabs
Another possible cause of itchy ball sack is pubic lice or crabs. They feed on the human blood found in the gentiles and surrounding areas.
Men may experience a severe itch on their testicles from the bites of these insects. Most of the time, these parasites spread through sexual contact. However, they may also spread through bedding, towels, and clothing. Over-the-counter creams and soaps are the best ways to rid your body of these parasites. However, if they do not go away, you may need to contact your doctor to get a stronger medication.
5. Scabies
Scabies is caused by sarcoptes scabeil, which is also known as the itch mite. Though with many names, it is not a fun rash. The most common symptom of scabies is a severe itchy rash that develops in the warm skin folds around the genitals. Similar to crabs, the bite of these parasites is what causes the irritation.
6. Psoriasis
Another possible cause of itchy testicles is psoriasis, which is a skin disorder that generally affects the knees, elbows, lower back and scalp. In these areas, it is defined as having red raised areas of scaly skin.
When psoriasis develops around the groin, it has a different look. Due to the moisture in the groin area, it will appear as a red patch instead of dry scaly skin.
Home Remedies for Itchy Testicles
Having itchy testicles is bothersome and embarrassing. The following home remedies can be used to clear up the itch.
1. Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is a natural antifungal, deep cleaning agent, and it naturally eliminates bacteria. Using this oil to remove the itch is simple:
- Apply to irritated area using a cotton ball twice a day for about a week. If it burns, mix it with coconut oil.
- You may also choose to add a few drops to your bath water and soak for about half an hour.
- Using soaps and shower gels that contain tea tree oil is effective as well.
2. Apple Cider Vinegar
Using apple cider vinegar is an excellent option to cure and control many skin infections. It is naturally antifungal and antibacterial. Use the following three steps to clear away the itch with apple cider vinegar:
- Combine two cups of warm water with two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar.
- Next, cleanse the infected area with the solution. Let it air dry.
- Cleanse in the morning, midday, and before bed.
3. Rubbing Alcohol
Rubbing alcohol does two things, it kills the infection and dries out the area. You can apply this to the infected area using a cotton ball 2-3 times a day.
4. Listerine
Listerine is created to be an antiseptic, antifungal, and antibacterial solution. Just as can be done with the rubbing alcohol, you can apply this to the infected area using a cotton ball 2-3 times a day. It may sting at first, but the relief will soon follow.
5. White Vinegar
White vinegar has similar properties as many of the other remedies mentioned; it kills fungus and has antiseptic properties.
- Create a solution of white vinegar by mixing one part of the vinegar to four parts of water.
- Soak a washcloth in the solution and thoroughly cleanse the infected area.
- Let it air dry.
- Repeat 1-2 times daily.
Another option is to mix 1 part white vinegar to 1 part coconut oil and spread on the infection. After a couple hours, wash it off.
Tips for Dealing With Itchy Testicles
Scratching the infected area will only cause the infection to spread and may even cause other infections. The best way to cure itchy testicles is to visit your doctor for an accurate diagnosis so that you treat the infection appropriately.
There are also a few lifestyle habits that can prevent and cure itchy testicles.
- The best thing you can do is to thoroughly cleanse your groin area daily. Keeping the area clean will prevent fungus from living in the warm moist environment provided to them.
- Wear clean underwear daily. This may sound simple, yet so many do not and the dirty underwear will only help the parasites or infections spread.
- Take a towel to the gym. Many gyms provide clean towels, but unless you are sure the towels are cleaned properly, it is best to take your own.
- Wear underwear that is 100% cotton to avoid irritation.
- Use cleaning products other than fabric softeners, many laundry detergents, and bleach. Avoiding the strong chemicals will prevent irritation.