Facts That Nobody Told You About Jock Itch

In warm, wet parts of the body, jock itch is a fungal skin infection that results in an itchy rash. The rash often appears on the inner thighs and groin and may resemble a ring. Tinea cruris is another name for the ailment.

Because it affects so many athletes, jock itch has earned its moniker. It is also typical of those who perspire a lot. Mild to severe cases of the illness are possible. Using antifungal lotions and taking care of oneself, it normally goes away in 1 to 3 weeks.

Symptoms

Jock itch signs include:

• A rash that spreads and starts in the groin crease before moving down the upper thigh and buttocks
• A rash that spreads but whose core tends to clear
• A rash that looks like a whole or half ring
• A rash surrounded by tiny blisters
• Itchiness
• Rough skin
• A rash that, depending on your skin tone, may be red, brown, purple, or gray

When To See A Doctor

If your rash hurts or you start feeling feverish, see a doctor. And if the rash doesn’t go away after a week of self-care with an over-the-counter antifungal medication, contact a doctor. Additionally, if the rash hasn’t completely disappeared after three weeks of therapy, consult a doctor.

Causes

Fungi that flourish in warm, wet parts of the body are what create jock itch. The same bacterium that causes athlete’s foot also often causes jock itch. Skin-to-skin contact or the exchange of infected towels or clothes are two ways that the rash may pass from one person to another. Additionally, using your hands or a towel to transfer an infection from your foot to your groin is possible.

Risk Factors

You have a higher chance of getting jock itch if you:

• Are men
• A teenager or a young adult
• Wear tight clothes like jeans, panties, or other attire
• Sweat a lot
• Have a weak immune system
• Possess athlete’s foot

Prevention

Jock itch prevention advice includes the following:

• Keep dry. After a shower or workout, dry off with a fresh towel to keep the groin region and inner thighs dry. To prevent spreading athlete’s foot to the groin region, dry your feet last.
• Put on clean clothing. If you perspire a lot, change your underwear more often than once per day. It is beneficial to use cotton or other breathable underwear to keep the skin dry. After every exercise, wash your clothing.
• Identify the ideal match. Select well-fitting undergarments, sports bras, and sports outfits. Your skin may chafe and become more prone to jock itch if your clothing is too tight. Instead of wearing briefs, try wearing boxer shorts.
• Don’t exchange private goods. Don’t allow anybody else to use your towels, clothes, or other personal belongings. Don’t take such things on loan from others.
• Athlete’s foot treatment or prevention. To stop an athlete’s foot from spreading to the groin, control it. Wear water-resistant shoes at public pools, in the showers, and in the locker rooms to avoid athlete’s foot.