SYMPTOMS

What is scrotal dampness?

Scrotal dampness refers to abnormal symptoms such as excessive sweating, moisture, or a cool sensation in the scrotal area, which may be accompanied by localized itching in severe cases.

Speaking of the scrotum, let’s first introduce the male reproductive organ—the testicles. The primary functions of the testicles are sperm production and the secretion of androgens. For the testicles to produce sperm normally, they require a cool environment. If the temperature around the testicles becomes too high, it can impair sperm production, cause degeneration of the spermatogenic epithelial cells, lead to abnormal semen, or even result in male infertility.

The scrotum encases the testicles and has a certain degree of elasticity, functioning like a thermostat. When the external temperature drops, the skin of the scrotum tightens and forms dense folds, while the smooth muscles and cremaster muscles contract to bring the testicles closer to the body, raising their temperature. Conversely, when the external temperature rises, the scrotal skin relaxes and thins, and the smooth muscles and cremaster muscles extend, allowing the testicles to descend away from the body to enhance heat dissipation. This mechanism maintains the scrotal temperature at a stable range of 32°C to 33°C. Additionally, the scrotal skin contains numerous sweat glands that help regulate local temperature through sweat secretion ^[1].

TREATMENT

How to Relieve Scrotal Moisture?

1. Maintain personal hygiene by bathing frequently, preferably with warm water. Clean the perineal area daily and dry it promptly to keep it dry. Change underwear often, opting for loose, breathable materials (such as modal, cotton, or viscose blends) and avoiding tight-fitting underwear.
2. Follow a light diet and avoid tobacco, alcohol, and spicy or irritating foods (e.g., chili peppers) ^[2].
3. Avoid prolonged sitting or working in hot environments.
4. Refrain from excessive or frequent ejaculation, such as multiple times a day or frequent ejaculation over a short period.
5. Apply talcum powder to keep the area dry.
6. If redness occurs, consider scrotal dermatitis and apply calamine lotion or similar remedies.
7. If diagnosed with scrotal eczema, use steroid-based ointments (e.g., compound dexamethasone acetate ointment, usually available at pharmacies). Avoid scratching, as it may worsen the condition ^[3].

Note that rare conditions, such as eczematoid carcinoma, require different treatments. If the above measures fail to relieve scrotal moisture or if symptoms worsen, seek medical attention promptly for further diagnosis and treatment ^[4].

DIAGNOSIS

Which department should I visit for scrotal moisture?

If you experience abnormal urination or scrotal heaviness, you can see a urologist. If there are obvious skin lesions, you may choose to visit a dermatologist.

When should I seek medical attention for scrotal moisture?

You should go to the hospital immediately if scrotal moisture is accompanied by the following symptoms:

1. Persistent itching that does not improve.
2. Abnormal scrotal skin: such as swelling, erosion, oozing, crusting, or rashes ^[3].
3. Redness, swelling, or warmth in the scrotum.
4. Heaviness or discomfort in the scrotum or testicles, or even pain.
5. Enlargement of the scrotum or testicles.
6. Urinary symptoms such as frequent urination, urgency, pain, weak stream, splitting, or incomplete voiding ^[2].
7. No improvement after prolonged treatment, sudden recent worsening, or the appearance of new discomforts.

POTENTIAL DISEASES

What are the possible causes of scrotal dampness?

1. Physiological factors:

   • Excessive physiological sweating.
   • Prolonged sitting, especially in a cross-legged position, which impairs local circulation and reduces heat dissipation.
   • Working in hot and high-temperature environments, leading to increased sweating.
   • Wearing tight, non-breathable underwear that hinders heat dissipation.
   • Frequent ejaculation, which causes repeated congestion of the reproductive system in the pelvic region, disrupting normal temperature regulation ^[2]. Unhealthy habits like excessive alcohol consumption and staying up late can worsen congestion.
   • Weakness in old age or abnormal sweat regulation.

2. Pathological factors:

   • Chronic prostatitis: Scrotal dampness is a key symptom of chronic prostatitis ^[2]. This condition can disrupt autonomic sympathetic nerve function, impairing scrotal temperature regulation and causing dampness.
   • Varicocele: Abnormal dilation and twisting of the spermatic vein can weaken scrotal heat dissipation, increasing sweating and leading to dampness.
   • Scrotal eczema: Scrotal eczema often results from interactions between factors like a hot environment and poor blood circulation, which also contribute to dampness ^[3]. Additionally, scrotal eczema disrupts temperature regulation, worsening dampness.
   • Scrotal inflammatory carcinoma: Early symptoms resemble scrotal eczema, including redness, warmth, itching, and blister-like rashes. Scratching may cause skin exudation and subsequent crusting. It is also a cause of scrotal dampness.