Dear doctor;

I have got a problem that is becoming a menace to me. I just cannot understand why I keep  scratching my private parts especially when I am in public. I always find myself spontaneously doing it and at times, I only get to know that I am doing it when a colleague rebukes me. What can I do to stop this because it is so disturbing?

Garbi M, 24, Kacyiru.

Dear Garbi M,

Scratching of private parts most commonly occurs due to fungal infections. Poor hygiene, wearing tight or damp undergarments, among others. Nylon undergarments aggravate this condition. They also increase risk for eczema where one has itching due to allergy. Diabetes with uncontrolled blood sugar, HIV infection also increase one’s susceptibility to fungal infections which are slow to clear. Rarely it might be due to anxiety or stress. Always wear clean, dry and cotton undergarments, keep good hygiene of private parts.If the itching is much, use of anti allergy drug such as cetrizine or polaramine for a short time will be beneficial. Use of a topical antifungal ointment for six to eight weeks will help clearing the infection. It is better to exclude diabetes or HIV, that is, any treatable condition predisposing to fungal infections. It is also important to remain stress free.