And How It Differs in Adults and Children or Babies
Groin eczemacan affect adults and children alike.
It’s not clear what causes this itchy, red, scaly rash.
However, skin irritants and allergens are a common trigger for many people.
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Like other types of eczema, the causes of groin eczema are unclear.
It’s believed that eczema may be a result of genetics and triggers.
Triggers may be different from one person to another.
They may include irritation because of beauty or cleaning products, the weather, or nutritional deficiencies.
Irritants or Allergens
Irritants or allergens may contribute to the development of eczema.
Many everyday products that people use could cause skin irritation and lead to the skin condition.
In areas where the air lacks moisture, eczema can also become worse.
Urine and feces are also irritating to the skin and can trigger groin eczema.
Research has shown that there is a link between immune function and eczema.
It is most commonly found in infants and adults aged 30 to 60.
It is not a common cause of groin eczema.
Infants are also susceptible to seborrheic dermatitis on their scalp and buttocks.
When it develops on the scalp, it is called acradle cap.
When it develops in the buttocks of infants, it can be mistaken for diaper rash.
What Are the Symptoms of Groin Eczema?
The symptoms of groin eczema are similar to those of eczema on other parts of the body.
They can include intense itching and a red, scaly rash.
They may be seen scratching their groin area excessively to help with the itch because of the condition.
This can worsen eczema and lead to further inflammation.
Eczema vs. Jock Itch
Scrotal eczema is often mistaken forjock itch.
Jock itch causes similar symptoms to eczema such as a red, scaly, and itchy rash.
The difference between the two is that jock itch is brought on by a fungus.
How Is Groin Eczema Diagnosed?
Your primary care physician can diagnose groin eczema.
Your doctor can sometimes diagnose groin eczema by just looking at the rash during a physical exam.
A skin biopsy (skin sample) may be taken for testing in a lab.
This will help to determine the source of the rash.
How Is Groin Eczema Treated?
Treatment for groin eczema typically begins with the removal of the trigger.
For scrotal eczema, this includes stopping any over-the-counter treatments, wearing loose clothing, and stress management.
Other treatments include:
For vulvar and perianal eczema, treatment involves prescription moisturizing agents or steroid creams.
The creams should be applied after you finish bathing or showering.
Emollients should also be used in place of soaps and other moisturizers that may exacerbate the condition.
This can help loosen the scales of the affected skin area.
Once they have been loosened, they can be removed using a cloth.
Natural Remedies
Some natural remedies may be effective at treating and managing groin dermatitis at home.
However, they should only be used after receiving a conclusive diagnosis and instructions from your physician.
Switch Your Underwear Brand
Some fabrics can irritate the skin in the groin area.
Try Wet Wrapping
Wet wrapping is used when an eczema flare-up is particularly severe.
It involves using clean cotton clothing or gauze and wetting it with water.
The wet wrap is then applied to the affected area under pajamas or other loose-fitted clothing.
It is meant to relieve itching and inflammation.
Wet wrapping should be done after bathing and applying any topical medications for your eczema.
Some gentle ointments that can be used include petroleum jelly and mineral oil.
They are often the first choice when it comes to gentle moisturizing.
Creams and lotions can also be used, as well as skin barrier repair creams.
This will ensure that you have a conclusive diagnosis and can then try certain products that your physician recommends.
How Is Groin Eczema Prevented?
They can help you determine the best course of treatment for your child.
If you continue to itch your eczema in the groin, it can become worse.
It can also remain aggressive if you continue to have contact with the irritant that triggered it.
It’s not clear what causes it, though genetics and certain triggers are thought to play a role.
Triggers may include irritants (or allergens), nutritional deficiencies, emotional stress, and more.
Groin eczema can be diagnosed and treated by a healthcare professional.
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