Jock itch is a fungal infection of the skin. Although, it is annoying and unpleasant, it is rarely serious. This article tells you about how to cure jock itch.
Jock itch, also known as tinea cruris, is caused by the fungus called dermatophytes. It is also known as ringworm of the groin. The infection commonly affects the outer layers of the skin of the genitals, inner thighs, and buttocks. The infection in women and girls is not as common as it is in adult men and adolescent boys. The areas mentioned above are commonly affected as they happen to be warm and moist thus, the perfect place for the fungus to grow, thrive and multiply.
Jock itch is named so as it is common in people who sweat profusely, athletes being an important example. It is also a problem in people who are over-weight. Common triggers of the infection include constant friction from clothes, and the area being moist for long. The symptoms of the infection could be intimidating, but not serious. However, the same may not stand true for those with compromised immune system. Note that, the infection could be easily transmitted from one person to another via direct contact, or contaminated items.
How to Get Rid of Jock Itch
# Fortunately, in most cases, the infection is mild and can be treated with over-the-counter medicines. These may include topical antifungal powders, or creams. These products usually contain terbinafine, miconazole, or clotrimazole.
# In some people, especially those with chronic medical conditions like AIDS, diabetes, cancer, etc., the infection may be too severe to be treated with OTC medications. So they are given medications that can be acquired only with a doctor’s prescription. These may include both oral and topical drugs. They are:
- Econazole (Spectazole)
- Oxiconazole (Oxistat)
- Itraconazole (Sporanox)
- Fluconazole (Diflucan)
- Terbinafine (Lamisil)
Self Care Measures At Home
Following a few self-care measures at home, apart from taking medicines as directed by the doctor, helps in speedy recuperation.
- Wash the affected area of the genitals, thighs and buttocks two to three times a day with a gentle soap-less cleanser. Thereafter, use a clean towel to pat them dry, and apply antifungal powder or ointment to the affected area.
- It is also recommended to sleep without wearing any clothes so as to let the infected area air out. By keeping the area dry and clean, the infection could be kept from worsening or spreading further.
- Wear undergarments that can keep the genitals away from the rest of the skin, and ensure that they are 100% cotton. Cotton clothes prevent skin irritation, and help curb any further infection.
- Wearing tight-fitting clothes, especially in warm and humid weather, is a complete no-no. Loose fitting clothes such as boxers are better than briefs.
- Always wear fresh and clean clothes. Sweaty clothes can provide the fungus with a gala time in the infected area.
An important aspect in jock itch cure is to avoid sharing personal items. It is a must that you do not let others use your personal items such as soaps, clothing, towels and the like. Likewise, avoid borrowing and using the same from others. People who go for workouts in gyms must ensure that exercise machines are cleaned in between usage. All these measures should be inculcated in order to reduce the infection from spreading further, and for preventing the infection from occurring in the first place.
Important Indicants of Jock Itch
Jock itch begins with itching in the groin, including the genitals, inner thighs, buttocks, and anal area. Red rashes with vivid edges may develop in these areas. These rashes are usually redder on the outside with a normal skin tone in the center. The person may experience a burning sensation in the infected area. Flaking, cracking or peeling of the skin in the groin may also be noticed. The itchy and ring-shaped rash occurs usually on both sides of the groin, and it affects the folds. At a later stage, the rash may become dry, rough and bumpy. It may develop pus or begin to ooze. If left untreated, secondary complications such as skin damage, open sores, ulcers and sometimes, though rare, cellulitis may develop.
That would be it for measures to cure jock itch, which comprise medicines and a few self-care measures at home. Awareness about jock itch and cleanliness is the main key to preventing the condition.
