What is Jock Itch?
Jock itch is a fungal skin infection that is sometimes also referred to as ringworm of the groin. Damp conditions of the nether region make it susceptible for the fungal growth that causes jock itch.
Jock Itch Symptoms
As the name for this rash implies, symptoms include itching and a burning feeling usually in the areas of the groin, thighs, or folds in the skin. It may even involve the genitals. These rashes may appear reddish, tan, or brown, with flaking or cracking skin.
Is Jock Itch in Females Common?
Nearly everybody gets a jock itch rash at some point of time in life. The genitalia of boys and adult men are more affected by jock itch rash than women. Jock itch in men occurs due to prolonged wetness in and around the groin area and friction with clothes or skin. Similarly, female jock itch occurs due to excessive sweating; and sometimes a related fungal infection appears even beneath the breasts.
An athlete's foot infection can also cause jock itch if the same towel is used to dry feet and then the groin area. People with a compromised immune system (HIV/AIDS, cancer), serious health issues (diabetes, obesity), and other predisposing skin conditions (eczema) are more prone to jock itch.
Jock itch in women is not so common but do occur.
Is Jock Itch Contagious?
Most cases of jock itch are contagious and cases caused by an infection may be transmitted through skin or sexual contact, sharing of apparels, locker room towels, and other public amenities (which may be infected) can cause jock itch rash.
Though easily curable, some cases of prolonged jock itch may not be treatable. These resistant cases may be controlled with proper medication and treatment.
Jock Itch Complications
An infrequent complication can arise if jock itch rash spreads past the groin onto the thighs and genitals. Secondly, scratching or rubbing of the skin can deepen the infection causing cellulitis or abscess formation.
Skin discoloration is another potential complication which is temporary. It includes:
1. post-inflammatory hypopigmentation (lighter than the regular skin color)
2. post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (darker than the regular skin color)
The Best Jock Itch Treatment is- Prevention
Since fungus and bacteria thrive in warm, dark, and damp conditions, being aware of and reducing these conditions can help treat and prevent jock itch. Expose your body to plenty of free circulating air. Defense Antifungal Mediated Bar Soap should be used to wash and treat this area.
Conclusively, maintaining good skin hygiene prevents the fungus jock itch.