What causes Jock Itch infection?

Jock Itch is caused by a fungus and is contagious. The groin area is a perfect environment for the fungus to grow, being dark and warm. Risk factors such as heavy sweating during summer months or wearing damp or tight clothes can increase its occurence.

It is fairly common and occurs more often in warmer weather with high humidity. Also called ringworm of the groin.

What happens with Jock Itch infection?

Jock Itch produces well-defined scaly, red, ring-like areas in the groin and upper/inner thighs, sometimes accompanied by small blisters. It is itchy and occasionally painful. Excessive scratching might lead to a secondary bacterial infection which will require consultation with your medical practitioner.

Jock itch tends to recur especially if the groin area stays moist.

Traditional Pharmacy

The specific goal is to relieve the itching and pain, eradicate the infection and prevent recurrence. It is very important to commence treatment at the first sign of an itch or redness. Fortunately jock itch can be treated with over-the-counter medications and attention to personal care. Generally, careful treatment will eliminate the fungi, relieve painful itching and reduce the possibility of recurrence.

The affected area should be kept clean and dry. Amongst the most effective topical medications is clotrimazole (available as a topical antifungal cream). The medication should be applied twice a day. Bifonazole is also an effective medication that is available in a cream as a once a day antifungal treatment. Treatment should becontinued for a couple of weeks after the infection has disappeared to reduce the likelihood of recurrence. The area should always be washed with soap and water and thoroughly dried, after which dusting with an antifungal powder will help.

Natural Pharmacy

Compresses of aloe or calendula may be helpful. Also tea tree oil (a few drops) mixed into a cream base and applied twice a day is recommended as a support treatment, relieving the itch.

What else to do

• Wear loose fit under clothes (cotton rather than synthetics).
• Use your own towels and soap, don't share.
• Try to stay dry

Prevention and Cautions

• Change damp or sweaty clothes after exercise or exertion.
• Change underwear as frequently as possible.
• Change out of wet swimwear, don't sit around.

Seek professional advice if…

• The tinea proves to be stubborn.
• If extreme redness, cracking or oozing occurs.
• Stubborn infection may require prescription medication from your medical practitioner.

References

• The Merck Manual, 17th Edit. 1999
• The Encyclopaedia of Natural Medicine 2nd Edition. 1998