Tinea Cruris, or “jock itch, is a common infection among men, specifically athletes. But what is it exactly? It is actually a type of fungal infection that grows on the topmost layer of the skin and causes an itchy rash. Learn more about jock itch causes and symptoms here.
What is a Jock Itch?
Jock itch, like any other fungus, likes warm and moist places, which is why it grows on or near the groin area. Cases are high among active people like athletes, and are more common among men. However, anyone can catch this infection.
And because it is a fungal infection, it is fairly contagious and can easily be transmitted either through direct contact or indirect contact, with the sharing of garments like clothes, towels and underwear, for example.
In addition, if you spend time in warm, damp places like the gym, another common fungal infection that shares jock itch causes and symptoms is athlete’s foot. In fact, athlete’s foot can spread to the groin area, causing jock itch if left untreated.
Jock itch causes symptoms that include:
- Reddish, ring-like rashes
- Flaky patches of skin
- Peeling of the skin
- Cracked, and moderately itchy skin
- Blister-like bumps
Although it isn’t dangerous in any way, it is still contagious and can become quite bothersome if left untreated. Fortunately, it is also very easy to spot, fairly easy to treat, and even preventable.
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How to Prevent Jock Itch?
A few ways to treat or even prevent jock itch altogether include:
Maintain good hygiene
Because jock itch is a fungal infection that grows on skin, taking regular showers or baths can help prevent you from catching this infection. Keeping your clothes such as your underwear clean and regularly changing them will also help avoid catching the infection.
Stay dry
Because the jock itch is fungal in nature, keep yourself dry as much as possible, especially around the groin area.
Wear loose clothing
Another reason why jock itch develops quickly in male athletes is because of tight, non-breathable fabrics that can chafe and scratch your skin, increasing the risk of jock itch. It is recommended that athletes wear clothes made from cotton or sweat-wicking apparel.
No sharing of clothes
Don’t share or borrow personal items such as underwear and towels as the fungal infection may spread indirectly. In addition, regularly change and clean your pillowcases and bedsheets.
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What to Do if You Notice That You Have Hadhad?
Consult your doctor
The first thing to do when you start seeing signs is to go to the doctor to make sure that it is jock itch. They can prescribe the best treatment for your case.
Take your medication as prescribed
The doctor will most likely prescribe an ointment and/ or powder that you can apply to the rash to control the itchiness. This is usually meant to keep the affected area dry and prevent the further spread of the infection. Don’t worry too much as this medication can usually get rid of the infection within 2-4 weeks.
Treat other infections
Since athlete’s foot can cause jock itch when untreated, your doctor may also prescribe treatment to prevent hadhad from coming back.
Key Takeaways
While jock itch is fairly contagious, it’s a mild inconvenience at best even when untreated. So don’t worry too much. With proper hygiene and by taking the prescribed medications by your doctor, you can cure and prevent the condition from coming back.
Learn more about Skin Infections here.
