Redness and Burning on Scrotum

[Kahuna811]

Recently I developed something similar to jock itch but none of the over-the-counter remedies have helped.  I have tried 3 different ones all with different active ingredients.  

My scrotum has turned reddish (sometimes bright red) and I occassionally get a burning feeling on the skin. The burning feeling ranges from mild to intense and is located on the outside of the scrotum, not inside.  

On a rare occasion I will get some itching but I think that is just normal itching.  This redness and itching is limited to my scrotum and has not moved elsewhere.  It is heaviest on the underside/backside of my scrotum.  There is no dry skin or flaking or other traditional jock itch symptoms.

Any ideas?

[1password]

I also have a  itching sensation at times during the day
on the scrotum! I scratch it and it gives off a couple drops of blood on my underwear! I think this is due to me taking Xanax which my doctor prescribes (The mediction stated that itching can
occur with possible rash or hives?) What are your comments?

[Kahuna811]

Can eczema be caused by hard water?  This did tend to start when we moved to a new area that has hard water and we have no water softener.  However, I have no undue itchiness or dryness on the rest of my body.

If it is eczema shouldn't I have dryness, cracking skin or some other symptoms?  None of which I have.

Thanks for the advice.  I will try the hydrocortisone.

[Alan Rockoff, MD]

"Jock itch" medications are antifungal, but rashes that affect the scrotum are rarely fungal.  Most often they represent eczema or some other similar sensitivity.  My advice is to set up an appointment with a dermatologist.  While you are waiting to do, try applying over-the-counter 1& hydrocortisone twice a day, and then moisturizing on top of it with Lubriderm lotion.  Your response (expected) or lack of response will help the skin doctor figure out how to fix you up.

Take care.

Dr. Rockoff