Other Definitions
jock itch (dict)
|
Jock ItchJock itch, also called tinea cruris or ringworm of the groin, is an infection of the groin area caused by fungi. Causes The body normally hosts a variety of microorganisms, including bacteria and fungi. Some of these are useful to the body. Others can multiply rapidly and form infections. Jock itch occurs when a particular type of fungus grows and multiplies in the groin area. Jock itch occurs almost exclusively in adult men. It can sometimes accompany athlete's foot and ringworm. The fungus that causes jock itch, thrives in warm, moist areas. The risk of getting jock itch is increased by friction from clothes and prolonged wetness in the groin area (such as from sweating). Jock itch may be contagious. It can be passed from one person to the next by direct skin-to-skin contact or by contact with contaminated items such as unwashed clothing. Jock itch usually stays around the creases in the upper thigh and does not involve the genitals (scrotum or penis). It is often less severe than other tinea infections, but may last a long time. Jock itch may spread to the anus, causing significant anal itching and discomfort. - Other causes of itching in the groin include:
Symptoms - Itching of the groin, thigh skin folds, or anal area
- Circular skin rash -- red, raised, scaly patches that may blister and ooze. The patches often have sharply-defined edges. They are often redder around the outside with normal skin tone in the center. (This may create the appearance of a ring.)
- Abnormally dark or light skin
Preventing recurrence There are practices that can help reduce the risk of recurrence. Bear in mind that fungus can be very resilient both on the body and on clothing. To eliminate it permanently may require diligence. A long term or serious fungal infection may inflame the skin and make it more prone to sweating, and hence more ideal for recurrence. Ibuprofen or other anti-inflammatory drugs may be used to reduce inflammation. Some dermatologists prescribe a corticosteroid against the itch, which has a side effect of making the skin thinner and the problem worse. There are many medicinal ointments against candida that do a better job. Dryness Bathe or shower immediately after sweating. This is especially important after exercising, where there has been sweating and irritation from friction. Use talcum powder or a medicated powder such as tolnaftate to keep the groin area dry. A fhn or a ventilator can be very helpful too, specially if you use water instead of toilet paper, as is recommended to prevent skin damage. Irritants Several materials and activities can aggravate jock itch, such as: - Scented or antibacterial soaps. (Consider hypoallergenic or acidic candida soaps)
- Sweating and friction, such as cycling (regularly shave your hairs).
- Synthetic materials.
Clothing Clothing is especially important. If fungus resides on your clothing, and you are susceptible to it, the odds of recurrence are much higher. It can help to: - Wear loose underwear, such as boxer shorts.
- Sleep with a nightshirt or in the nude.
- Change underwear frequently, particularly if it gets sweaty.
There are ways to help keep clothing free of fungus. - Wash exercise clothing between workouts.
- Wash underwear and bed-sheets in hot water.
- Be mindful of clothing storage. In particular, because of the ideal growing conditions for fungus, avoid storage:
- of exercise clothing without washing it,
- in damp or moist areas,
- in dark places, and
- with poor ventilation.
External links
|
 |