Jock Itch: All About The Fungal Infection

Jock Itch: All About The Fungal Infection
Jock itch is so named because a large percentage of male
athletes get affected by this fungal infection. But it can
be seen in anybody as an infection in the anal, genital and
thigh areas of their bodies. This skin infection is very
much similar to a ringworm and the most affected part is
the groin area of the body of both sexes, but more commonly
in males. These appear in the form of red patches in which
the patient feels severe itching sensation. Standard
anti-fungal treatments are used to treat jock itch, the
symptoms of which include itching and red patches in the
groin area, mostly confined in the area near the anus,
surrounding skin and inner thighs.

These are characterised by red patches defined with dark
borders. These patches are raised, form scales and can also
ooze. Patches are in the shape of a ring and their colour
is darker at the edges than at the centre. Normally, jock
itch is simply identified by seeing the condition of the
skin, but in case of doubt, the fungus can be identified by
performing a biopsy. Jock itch can also be called as tinea
cruris, which is caused when a fungus belonging to the
dermatophyte family gets multiplied on the skin of the
groin area. It gets multiplied mostly in the humid and hot
places, for which the groin area is perfect. Anybody who
gets in contact with an infected person, or shares his or
her towel or clothes may catch jock itch.

People who wear tight under garments and sweat very much
are more susceptible to jock itch. Another factor that
contributes to the infection is obesity, eczema, AIDS and
diabetes.
Anti-fungal ointments, creams and powders can be used in
cases of mild jock itch. But if the problem is not able to
be solved in more than 15 days, then it is better to
consult a doctor, who will prescribe some oral anti-fungal
medications.

Sometimes, scratching a lot can add to the problem by
causing bacterial infections. To prevent this, the doctor
will tell the medications to relieve itching also. Some
preventive measures for jock itch are to keep dry the groin
area, as it is more prone to the infection. Wearing tight
fitting clothes and clothes that cause friction on the body
should be avoided as far as possible. Sharing towel with
other people should also be avoided because this is a
communicable infection. The infection can also be
transmitted from one person to another while having sex or
while coming in close contact with the infected person.

Taking bath regularly and keeping the vulnerable areas
clean is also important to avoid the problem. Even if
someone catches the infection, scratching the area should
be avoided as far as possible, because this will only
worsen the problem. Some people are more prone to jock itch
and they catch the infection time and again. They should
regularly use an anti-fungal powder on the groin area after
drying it and consult the doctor for further treatment
procedures.

----------------------------------------------------
More articles about jock itch symptom and treatment are
available at following website:
http://www.jockitchcare.com
http://www.jockitchcare.net