Table of ContentsView AllTable of ContentsTypesCausesDiagnosisTreatmentCoping
Table of ContentsView All
View All
Table of Contents
Types
Causes
Diagnosis
Treatment
Coping
Genitaleczemadescribes a skin condition that causes itchy inflammation and red, sore skin on various parts of the genitals, including the scrotum, penis, perianal area, and vulva.
There are ways to get relief at home, such as using a humidifier and avoiding harsh soaps and other products that irritate the skin. If your symptoms don’t clear up on their own, prescription medications are also available.
This article discusses genital eczema, its symptoms, causes, and treatment options.
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The exact prevalence of eczema of the genital area is unknown, but it’s thought that many people with eczema will experience symptoms in their genital area.
Types of Genital Eczema
There are four types of eczema that could develop in the genital area:
There are different types of genital eczema depending on which part it affects:
Scrotal Eczema
Scrotal eczemacan cause itchy, dry skin and a rash on the scrotum. Other symptoms can include:
It can appear in four different forms:
Scrotal eczema is often mistaken for a fungal infection.
Some people are more at risk for developing scrotal eczema includuding:
Perianal Eczema
Perianal eczema occurs around the area between the anus and genitals. If you have perianal eczema, you may experience:
People who are more at risk for perianal eczema include:
Vulvar Eczema
Vulvar eczema describes chronic itching an irritation of the external female genitalia. Symptoms can include:
People who are most at risk for this condition include:
Is It an STI or Genital Eczema?Although the symptoms of genital eczema are similar to those of some sexually transmitted infections (STIs), there are some signs that an infection is to blame for the itching and irritation. If you notice any odor, discharge, bleeding, or signs of infection such as a fever or body aches, it’s more likely that you have an STI, not genital eczema.
Is It an STI or Genital Eczema?
Although the symptoms of genital eczema are similar to those of some sexually transmitted infections (STIs), there are some signs that an infection is to blame for the itching and irritation. If you notice any odor, discharge, bleeding, or signs of infection such as a fever or body aches, it’s more likely that you have an STI, not genital eczema.
Atopic vs. Contact Dermatitis: How They Differ
Causes and Triggers
Factors that can contribute to the development of eczema include an overactiveimmune system, genetics, and high levels of stress.Certain environmental factors such as irritation and exposure to chemicals can also trigger symptoms. Some of the things that can lead to an eczema flare include:
How Eczema and Food Allergies Are Linked
Since other types of infections are more serious than eczema, they will have to be ruled out before treatment to make sure the condition is being cared for properly. The tests your dermatologist may order include:
How can you tell if you have genital eczema or psoriasis?Although the symptoms of eczema andpsoriasisare similar and they can both affect the genital area, psoriasis causes silvery-white scales while eczema presents with red, inflamed, peeling, and cracked skin. Eczema may also cause a bumpy rash in the area.
How can you tell if you have genital eczema or psoriasis?
Although the symptoms of eczema andpsoriasisare similar and they can both affect the genital area, psoriasis causes silvery-white scales while eczema presents with red, inflamed, peeling, and cracked skin. Eczema may also cause a bumpy rash in the area.
The Stages of Eczema
Since treatment is the only route to get relief from genital eczema, it’s important that you talk to your healthcare provider at the first sign of symptoms. Several factors need to be taken into consideration when developing a treatment plan, including the type of eczema, the cause, and how severe it is.
Home Remedies
Over-the-Counter Remedies
For people with eczema, the skin barrier doesn’t work as it should.You can improve your skin barrier function using products that containceramide.
Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen may also be effective for reducing burning, pain, and inflammation in the genital area. In some cases, antihistamines can reduce inflammation. Some specific OTC antihistamines to try include Benadryl, Zyrtec, Claritin, and Allegra.
Prescription Treatments
If OTC remedies don’t work or the cause isn’t an irritant, your doctor will likely prescribe topical steroids and a moisturizer to be used on the area. The most common steroid used for groin eczema ishydrocortisone.
Cortisone vs. HydroxyzineAlthough cortisone and hydroxyzine can help clear up genital eczema, research has shown that hydroxyzine can sometimes cause further irritation and worsen the condition.Therefore, cortisone is better for treating genital eczema.
Cortisone vs. Hydroxyzine
Although cortisone and hydroxyzine can help clear up genital eczema, research has shown that hydroxyzine can sometimes cause further irritation and worsen the condition.Therefore, cortisone is better for treating genital eczema.
Vulvar Dermatitis: Symptoms and Treatment
Genital eczema is common, and treatment is usually effective for relieving symptoms and reducing flare-ups. Establish a medication and moisturizing routine so you are less likely to forget.
If your condition is causing you to feel depressed or anxious, you could explore a relatively new type of psychotherapy known as psychodermatology. Medical professionals in this field explore the connection between the mind and eczema development and may be able to help you cope with the emotional impact of your eczema.
The National Eczema Association offers access to online support groups for people with various types of eczema. Connecting with people who share your condition will remind you that you are not alone and can make your eczema easier to cope with.
Coping With the Emotional Impact of Eczema
Summary
21 Sources
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