Jock itch

Tinea cruris is popularly called jock itch. 

Jock itch infection is caused by fungus. It generally occurs in warm and moist areas of the body. Jock itch is red and itchy. 

It gets its name because it is commonly found in athletes. Contrastingly, it is also common in people who are overweight or who sweat a lot. 

Jock itch can feel uncomfortable. It’s not a serious condition. 

What are the symptoms of Jock itch?

Jock itch begins as redness in the skin. It later spreads to other areas causing visible symptoms like:

• Redness
• Consistent itching
• Rash
• Skin damage
• Burning sensation in the skin
• Change in skin colour

These itches usually affect the groin and inner thigh area of the body. It later spreads to the abdomen and nearby region. 

What are the causes of jock itch? 

A specific type of fungi known as the dermatophytes causes jock itch. These fungi live on the skin and usually don’t cause problems. 

The problem begins when a person remains in clothes that are sweat-soaked after exercising or when they are exposed to prolonged time to moisture. 

These factors would multiply the fungi very quickly and cause jock itch. 

Jock itch is contagious. This means that the fungal infection can affect a person through personal contact with anyone who has jock itch. 

Developing jock itch is higher if 

• A person is male
• Teenager
• Obese or overweight
• Tendency to sweat more 
• Various underlying health conditions
• Tight clothing and
• Diabetes

How can we diagnose Jock itch?

A medical professional will diagnose jock itch by performing a physical examination inspecting the affected parts of the skin in the body.

In some clinics, a doctor may take skin scrapings in order to diagnose the condition. This is done to rule out other skin conditions that may intervene in the treatment. 

When to consult a doctor?

If the symptoms of the age don’t improve then it is necessary to make an appointment to visit a doctor. If this is left untreated there is a high chance of developing the secondary infection. 

Usually, this can be treated with various home remedies like

• Using antifungal cream or powder
• Wear loose clothing
• Treat other related fungus infection
• Washing the affected area with soap
• Drying the infected area after exercise.

After following the home remedies and the symptoms don’t reduce, it is important to consult a doctor. 

Can we prevent jock itch? 

There are various ways in which we can reduce the risk of developing jock itch. 

They are

• Having good hygiene
• Avoiding tight fit clothes
• Washing the areas regularly with soap
• Treat any underlying health condition
• Wearing loose clothes

By adapting these techniques, we can prevent developing jock itch. However, various other underlying health conditions can trigger it. 

Applying creams or other products developed specifically for jock itch can help treat the condition and manage the symptoms. It is also important to remember that such products must be used with proper medical consultation.

Some of the other fast ways to treat jock itch are to use antifungal creams, special gels, sprays, or powders. In severe cases a doctor may also prescribe antifungal pills to tr

To sum up 

Jock itch is a skin infection that is contagious and develops in moist areas of the body. 

It is commonly found in male teenagers and people who are overweight or have diabetes. 

The infections and symptoms are usually mild and can be treated at home. Only in severe conditions, medical assistance is required. 

Adopting good hygiene may help prevent the development of jock itch. 

Only if the symptoms don’t improve after applying home remedies it is mandatory to consult a health care professional.