Jock itch (tinea cruris): Treatment, Symptoms & Causes

Jock itch (tinea cruris)

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Jock Itch Symptoms

Typically, jock itch symptoms in the affected area include:

• Redness
• Constant itchiness
• A persistent burning sensation
• The flaking or peeling of the skin in the affected area
• A change in the color of the skin in the affected area
• Exercise or physical activity seems to worsen the rash
• Rash that does not change or worsens with over-the-counter anti-itch cream.

Why causes jock itch?

A group of fungi called dermatophytes are what cause jock itch. These fungi live on your skin naturally and usually do not cause problems. However, after exercising, if you stay in sweat-soaked clothing, long exposure to moisture will cause the fungi to multiply quickly.When you have an overgrowth of dermatophytes, it triggers jock itch, especially in the groin area or within the folds of your skin, such as your armpits. Jock itch can also be caused by prolonged exposure to moisture and friction from tight clothes.

Like said, before, the infection was named since it was common among male athletes. However, the infection is hardly gender specific. Jock itch is more likely to occur in those that are overweight because the fungus can grow in skin folds that are susceptible to sweating.

Transmission of Jock Itch

The jock itch-causing fungus is extremely infectious. Physical contact in close proximity with an infected person or through contact with an infected person's unwashed clothes or used towels, you can get the fungal infection.

Diagnosis of Jock Itch

It is possible to diagnose jock itch by looking at the rash, in most circumstances. Your doctor may take skin samples from the infected area to be examined if the diagnosis is not clear.

Jock itch Treatment

Your doctor may first prescribe using an over-the-counter medication such as anti-fungal lotions or creams and things as such, for mild jock itch. Apply the medicine for one or two weeks, as the doctor advises, even if  the rash seems to clear up quickly.

If you already have athlete’s foot, it is generally handled with jock itch at the same time to decrease the chance of the rash coming back. Prescription-strength creams, ointments or pills may be needed for extreme jock itch or a rash that does not improve with over-the-counter medication.

Home remedies for jock itch

The following are some home remedies for mild jock itch:

• Wash your groin area at least twice a day.
• Maintain a dry groin area.
• Wear 100 percent cotton underwear to avoid groin skin irritation.
• Fabric softeners, bleaches, and harsh laundry detergents can all be avoided.

How to prevent jock itch

• The best defence against jock itch is good hygiene. Your risk of catching this infection from anyone else can be minimised by regularly washing your hands.
  Keeping your skin clean and dry, particularly the area around your groyne, is also important.
• Wash the region daily with soap, and after washing, dry it thoroughly.
• As it can further increase the risk of jock itch, avoid tight-fitting clothes. Tight clothes can chafe your skin, making you more vulnerable. In hot or humid weather, wear loose-fitting clothes. Sweating and the wet, moist atmosphere in which fungus thrives can be avoided by loose clothing.
• After each use, ensure you wash any training clothes or athletic supporters.

Conclusion

It can be a chronic and recurring issue that causes discomfort and itching, though  jock itch is usually not serious. It does not cause any long-term damage, but if appropriate preventive steps have not been taken, the rash and other associated rashes such as athlete’s foot appear to recur. If this seems to be persistent and recurring, your visits to the doctor and the medication required will go up. These costs can add up quickly so make sure you are covered financially with the aid of health insurance.

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