Prevention of jock itch

It is not uncommon for people to be suffering from a certain medical condition called jock itch. The medical term for this problem is tinea cruris. People who do not know what jock itch is should be aware that is a fungal infection that attacks the skin of the genitals, buttocks and inner thighs. People who suffered from jock itch know that it is characterized by itchy, red and ring-shaped rashes on these body parts.

Who is most exposed?

It is mainly the people who sweat a lot, like athletes, that suffer from this condition but any person can end up suffering from it. Apart from athletes, people who have too much weight are also prone to suffering from jock itch. People need to know that this condition is not a serious one. However, when it occurs it is very uncomfortable and irritating. In cases when a person ends up suffering from jock itch, people just need to keep the area clean and dry and apply some topical antifungal medications. People with weak immune systems need to treat this condition as soon as it occurs.

Symptoms

There are a lot of signs of jock itch, but some of the most common are itching and redness in the groin area and that includes genitals, inner thighs and buttocks. Apart from these, some of the other symptoms are itching in the anal area, burning sensation in the affected area and flaking, peeling and cracking skin in the groin area. A person who ends up suffering from jock itch needs to avoid exercising until the symptoms are gone in order not to worsen them. If the condition does not get better after 14 days, a person should go to the hospital. If there is excessive redness and swelling or drainage, a person should also go to the hospital.

Causes

Jock itch occurs due to certain fungi called Dermatophytes and in cases when the skin is not clean and dry. This is why fungal infection attacks the parts of the body that are more likely to be moist. Athlete’s foot can also be the cause of jock itch.

Prevention

People need to know that there are ways they can reduce the risk of jock itch. Taking a bath every day is important in prevention of jock itch. Keeping the groin area is also important as well. Using a clean towel after washing or exercising should be done. People should try to avoid getting sweaty whenever they can. Wearing properly fitting clothes helps in this situation as well.