What is Jock Itch?
Jock itch is a fungal infection that causes a red, itchy rash in the warm, moist places on your body. Tinea cruris is another name for groin ringworm (tinea is the medical term for ringworm) and is a type of dermatophytosis.
The infection is typically found on the groin, inner thighs, or anal region. This condition is mainly seen in male athletes and male teenagers. People with a tendency of sweating a lot, are overweight or have skin allergies like eczema are more likely to get it. Although it is inconvenient, jock itch is usually not a serious condition and can be cured.
What are the symptoms of jock itch?
Jock itch symptoms usually occur between 4 to 14 days after the skin comes in contact with the fungus that causes ringworm.
The most common symptoms are
- redness
- persistent itching
- burning sensation
- flaking, peeling or cracking skin
- rash that gets worse with exercise or activity
- rash that worsens, or spreads
The jock itch rash forms a ring shape with a line of tiny blisters around it. The skin rashes may be flaky or scaly, and it may burn or itch. The infection may spread in around the upper thigh area. It causes raised red plaques (plate like regions) with sharp margins as the rash spreads. Minute pimples or pustules may appear around the infected region.
Jock Itch Causes:
Dermatophytes, a type of fungi are the main cause of jock itch. These fungi are naturally found on the skin. However, these fungi reproduce rapidly when exposed to moisture over a lengthy period of time (for example, when you remain in sweat-soaked clothes after exercising).
Dermatophytes are highly contagious and spread through skin-to-skin contact or close physical contact with an infected person. The fungus can also be transferred by coming into contact with an infected person’s unclean clothing.
Jock Itch Treatment
The affected skin can be treated with topical antifungal medicines orjock itch cream.
Here are a few self-care tips you can do:
- Keep your groin area clean and dry at all times
- Clothing that rubs and irritates the area should be avoided.
- Wear a pair of loose-fitting underpants.
- Wash athletic wear frequently.
Controlling the infection with over-the-counter antifungals or drying powders is possible.
If your infection lasts longer than two weeks or recurs frequently, you must see a doctor. The doctor may prescribe:
- Antifungal drugs that are stronger when applied to the skin or antifungal oral medicines.
- Antibiotics may be required to treat bacterial infections brought on by scratching.
- Even if you don’t have jock itch, apply antifungal or drying powders after bathing if you have a tendency to have it.
How to prevent jock itch?
You can take precautions to reduce your risk for jock itch:
Practice good hygiene. Washing your hands regularly can reduce the risk of getting the infection from others. Always keep your skin clean and dry, especially the groin area. Wash the groin area regularly with soap, and pat dry thoroughly after bathing.
Avoid tight-fitting clothing. Tight clothes can chafe your skin, which can cause jock itch. Prefer wearing something loose like boxer shorts. Loose clothing can prevent sweating and the warm, moist environment in which fungus thrives. Wash your workout clothes after each use.
If you have an athlete’s foot, seek treatment immediately. The fungal infection that causes jock itch can also cause athlete’s foot, and vice versa. To avoid spreading it to your groin area, ensure you to use a separate towel to clean your feet and your groin.
To summarize
Jock itch is a bothersome ailment, but it is curable. Antifungal drugs or home remedies can help you get rid of the condition. It’s advised to avoid scratching the infected area which might transmit the infection to other regions of your body.
Jock itch typically goes away within a week. But in severe cases, it may take up to eight weeks. Also, make sure you follow your doctor’s directions. It’s also crucial that you complete your course of medicine. Itchiness and discomfort will fade during the early phases of recovery. You could still have jock itch even if your symptoms disappear.
