Jock Itch - Irritating But Easy To Treat!

Jock itch is a fungal infection that occurs in the crotch region and also the perineum. Its prevention is facilitated by maintaining general hygiene, as in keeping the crotch area clean and dry.

What is jock itch?

Jock itch is a fungal condition characterized by a feeling of burning and itching in the region of the groin, anus and inner thighs. The groin is affected and the whole area will develop a red or red brown rash. If a person is suffering from jock itch the skin of the affected regions cracks, peels or flakes. The type of fungus that is commonly responsible for jock itch is the Trichophyton rubrum. This is a condition that can affect both males and females, but commonly affects males.

Causes of jock itch

The fungal organisms that cause jock itch thrive in the areas that are damp or humid warm and closed. Heavy sweating can mean that the body oils that help keep the fungus under control are washed away. It is this which makes the skin more prone to jock itch. Men who wear tight underwear or athletic supporters are more likely to suffer from jock itch, especially if they are not washed after each and every use. Obese people, those who sweat more than average, are more likely to get jock itch. Also, people who are suffering from a weak immune system as a result of suffering from medical conditions like HIV/AIDS or diabetes are at the risk of suffering from this fungal infection.

Symptoms of jock itch

There are various symptoms of this condition including:

- Itching and burning sensation

- Rippling, cracking and peeling of skin

- The colour of the affected area appears red or a red/brown color

- Rash can develop into red plaque that has a plate-like appearance

- Severe infection would be indicated by a raised area at the edge of the rash and it will sometimes ooze and look wet.

Diagnosis of jock itch

The skin appearance and symptoms dictate the diagnosis of this fungal condition. Doctors sometimes take a skin biopsy to confirm jock itch. At times, a skin biopsy is conducted if the doctor thinks there might be other possible diagnosis for the symptoms exhibited by the person. Sometimes your doctor will take a skin biopsy. Many a times a skin swab or culture is taken to diagnose jock itch. Simply the look of the skin, and the symptoms, are enough to diagnose jock itch.

Treatment for jock itch

Before thinking about treating the condition, it's important to know how you can prevent it. If you wear loose clothing, and do not share clothes or towels, you will be helping to prevent jock itch. There are actually many treatments for jock itch. Anti fungal creams and powders can help treat the jock itch. Usually, over the counter remedies and skin creams are enough to treat jock itch. A serious case of jock itch can mean a steroid cream for the patient.

Creams should be used for a period of two weeks, and minimum use is twice a day. Doctors advise that the cream should be used at least one week more after the disappearance of the rash.