Very Itchy Scrotum/Around penis/ inner thigh

I've been suffering from this for a long time. But I get very very extremely itchy in the area of my scrotum where I find myself scratching or picking at it because it is unbearable. Its usually throughout the day and it is very irritating when I wake up from the itchyness at 6AM. So it happens alot when I initially wake up usually because it is moist down there from sweat. I get most of my relief when I hop in the shower and rinse it with EXTREMELY hot water (max temperature). I'm afraid if i keep doing this It will damage my testes or sperm. Also I use a benadryl spray to temporarily relieve the itchyness. I really want to know how to just stop itching down there. It stresses me out often because I can't sleep or think sometimes. My inner thighs now have a discoloration to it because they use to be the main part of the itch. But it seems to have moved to the scrotum. At one point I had a similar itch in the anal region. And to add on a few years back I had a same unbearable itch in the armpits, i dont know if they relate to each other but maybe thatll help. I seriously need help.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
From the symptoms the possibility of intertrigo needs to be ruled out. An intertrigo is an inflammation (rash) of the body folds.It most commonly occurs due to bacterial, viral or fungal infection. An intertrigo usually appears red and raw-looking, and may also itch, ooze, and be sore.

Please keep the area clean and apply some topical antiseptics. Also wear loose-fitting cotton clothing and use an antibacterial soap or mild soap like dove. Avoid any kind of cosmetics. Topical zinc oxide cream like Sudocrem, Desitin are very helpful(apply with a paper towel and not directly with hands).Application of mild steroid cream like dermacort also helps. For the itching please take some over the counter antihistaminic like Benadryl or Claritin. In case the symptoms persist then antifungals may be needed. Please consult a dermatologist in that case.

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.