Jock Itch – Causes, Symptoms, Pictures, Prevention

Jock Itch is the common fungal infection that occurs in the groin area. This infection is caused by the ringworm Tinea cruris and hence it is also called as “Tinea of the groin”. Sometimes, it can become intense causing reddish pink rashes on the groin area. Jock itch is one of the primary skin infections in men. Many times, jock itch will resolve on its own, without requiring any treatment. People who are obese and diabetic are more prone to jock itch than others.

Jock Itch Causes :

There would be recurrent itching in the groin area when the type of fungus (Tinea cruris) develops there. It occurs very often in men and boys and it also causes ringworm and athlete’s foot. Presence of moisture is the main cause for getting jock itch. It may develop on the groin folds. It is a very simple form of infection that gets triggered by friction of tight fitting clothes. It can also occur due to sweating caused in the dark areas of groin, since the fungus lives in the moist areas.

Candida Yeast Infection and fungus by name Trichophyton and Coryne bacterium may also cause jock itch. However Jock itch is contagious and can easily pass on another person who comes into direct skin contact with the fungus or if the person uses unwashed clothing of the affected person.

Symptoms :

There will be mild to moderate itching in the groin area, more particular in the skin folds. Sometimes, it can also cause red scaly patches or lesions that ooze out pus. Very often, the patches will have well marked corners and is reddish color on the edges. The rash can also spread to other areas like genitals, labia and vagina (in women) and scrotum and penis (in men). In case of intense infection, there may be development of Ulcers and breaks in the skin causing Cellulitis. Jock itch will always limit itself to the areas of genitals and groin and will not spread to other body parts.

Tests :

Your doctor can easily identify Jock itch on physical examination of the affected groin. Skin biopsy is done for ruling out other form of infections like eczema, ringworm, Impetigo, Erythrasma, dermatitis, Heat Rash and Psoriasis. If needed, bacterial culture test is done for confirming the presence of Staphylococcus.

Home Care :

Since jock itch is caused due to excess of moisture, it is essential to keep the groin clean and dry. Wash it with mild cleanser 2-3 times a day. Use only cotton undergarments which will absorb moisture and retain dryness. Do not use harsh cleansers and soaps for washing clothes. You can also apply hydrocorticosone cream and Lotrimin cream on the groin twice or thrice a day. Alternatively, you can soak the groin using a wet cloth soaked in dilute vinegar solution. Try soaking in the bathtub containing dilute Clorox bleach.

Medical Care :

If the infection does not subside with home remedies, then you can apply topical creams containing miconazole or clotrimazole. In case if the infection becomes severe, consult your doctor to get proper antifungal drugs. Your doctor may also prescribe antibiotics for managing bacterial infection.

Pictures of Jock Itch :

Images, Pics, Pictures and Photos of Jock Itch

Prevention :

• It is easy to prevent Jock itch if you follow certain guidelines in wearing clothes. Always keep the groin dry and moist free.
• Avoid wearing tight clothing that causes irritation. Do not change the soaps or perfumes often. Change the underwear twice a day.
• After taking bath, you can apply antifungal powder to prevent fungal infection.