The Scrotum also known as the ball sack refers to the bag of skin that holds and helps to protect the testicles. The testicles make sperm and, to do this, the temperature of the testicles needs to be cooler than the inside of the body. This is why the scrotum is located outside of the body.
The testes are 2 small ball-like organs that are found inside the scrotum. The testes are responsible for making sperm and are also involved in producing a hormone called testosterone. Testosterone is an important hormone during male development and maturation for developing muscles, deepening the voice, and growing body hair.
What are ball sack pimples?
Ball sack pimples are protrusions on the bag of skin that holds and helps to protect the testicles. Ball sack pimples usually develop when the hair follicles get blocked and infected, shaving, ingrown hairs, wearing tight clothing, or clothing that rubs off the skin, or using an unclean hot tub or swimming pool. an infected cut or wound, perhaps from shaving, which lets bacteria spread to nearby hair follicles.
However, sometimes a boil like a pimple or bump can be a sign of genital herpes or orchitis. Herpes looks like white, yellow, or red translucent sores or bumps, filled with a clear liquid, whereas pimples are pink or red and are not see-through. While Ball sack pimples may appear individually as well as in clusters but in recognizable patterns, herpes sores are primarily observed in a bunch.
Ball sack pimples can also be a sign of testicular cancer which can happen to just one or both of your testicles. It usually starts as a small tumor in germ cells that make sperm inside your testicles.
What do ball sack pimples look like?
Ball sack pimples are similar in appearance to pimples that occur in other areas of the body. They can have different characteristics. For example, they may be painful or painless, burning, flesh-colored or red, pus-filled, in clusters or alone, itchy, or in various sizes.
What are the treatments and remedies for ball sack pimples?
Ball sack pimples can often clear up on their own. If not, treatment options include:
Determining the cause
If the cause of the ball sack pimple is determined to be a product, then it should be removed from use and changed. The first step to deciding the correct treatment is to uncover the cause of the pimples.
Keep a note of the occurrence of ball sack pimples and any products, activities, or other factors which may affect the genital area, including shaving and hot tub usage.
It can also be helpful to avoid all products that are in contact with the genital area, including laundry detergents, for a period of time. Once symptoms subside, slowly reintroduce these products, one at a time, and note any adverse reactions experienced.
Remove ball sack pimple causing irritants
Once the cause of the irritation or infection has been identified, stop using the product or engaging in the activity.
For example, if this is shaving, reduce irritation by using a new blade and shaving in the direction of the hair growth. Never dry shave. Reusable razors are available to purchase online.
It is important to keep hot tubs clean, only use properly treated pools, and to shower afterward. Also, avoid using oils on the skin as these can trap bacteria in the follicles.
Maintain good scrotal hygiene
The warmth and moisture in the genital area make it an ideal location for bacteria and other microorganisms to thrive.
Wash the area daily with warm water and mild, unperfumed soap. Avoid using harsh cleaning products around your scrotum, as these can affect the pH balance, which can lead to infection.
Choose cotton underwear and avoid fabrics that trap heat and moisture. Opt for loose, comfortable clothing that allows the skin to breathe, and always change clothing after working out.
Avoid squeezing ball sack pimples
Squeezing or popping ball sack pimples can cause further pain and irritation. The risk of spreading bacteria and causing infection increases, and the pimples may grow in number and severity. Wait for a pimple to rupture naturally or seek medical treatment.
Heat therapy
To address itching and pain, try treating the area with a warm compress. Simply soak a small towel in warm water and squeeze it out before placing it on the skin. This treatment can be repeated several times daily.
Always dry the area thoroughly before dressing to inhibit bacterial growth.
Medication
Speak with a doctor about medication for ball sack pimples. If contact dermatitis is the root cause, topical medications or antihistamines may be recommended. Infections can be treated with topical or oral antibiotics.
How can I prevent ball sack pimples?
There are steps you can take to prevent certain causes of ball sack pimples:
- Avoid tight-fitting pants or underwear.
- Choose underwear made of cotton or breathable materials.
- Promptly change out of sweaty clothes.
- Trim pubic hair instead of shaving.
- Wash your genital area daily with mild soap.
