Jock itch, ringworm of the groin, athlete’s itch are some common names given to itchy red rashes in the groin area, thighs, and adjacent skin. Jock itch develops through sweating & rubbing with moisture-laden apparel and in areas of the body where the skin overlaps. The jock itch fungus can also thrive in the area around the rectum and the skin folds of obese individuals. Jock itch affects mostly men and occasionally women.
Wrestlers and other combat athletes are at high risk for developing jock itch fungal rashes for the following reasons:
• Heat & humidity associated with heavy workouts in closed faculties
• Tight fitting gym wear and workout clothing
• Damp skin as occurs with excessive sweating
Jock itch can be quickly diagnosed.
Symptoms of Jock Itch
If you discover an itchy area of redness in skin folds the infection from jock itch fungus has just begun to spread. Sores may develop in a random pattern. You may even see tiny pimples or pustules with parts that are red and dry. Small scales may develop.
The infection becomes more irritating as time goes by. In severe cases, the skin breaks down, and the whole condition becomes very uncomfortable.
Jock Itch Treatment
Specific treatment depends upon the precise cause of the rash (friction, humidity, with or without infection). However, prevention is always better than cure. Jock itch soap is helpful in preventing jock itch from spreading to other areas of the body.
Self-Care at Home
Avoid wearing tight clothes to prevent jock itch. If you have minor itching and redness in the groin keep the area dry and exposed to as much air as possible.
There are many antifungal medications available which come in soap, cream, liquid spray, ointment, and powder forms. Some people may develop an allergic reaction to drugs; stop using them if your rash seems worse. Defense Antifungal Medicated Bar Soap contains natural essential oils and Tolnaftate to help treat and prevent jock itch.
How to Prevent Jock Itch?
Below are some points to help you prevent jock itch fungus from developing.
• Use cornstarch, powders to avoid friction and heat build-up
• Wash your susceptible areas with our Defense Antifungal Medicated Bar Soap or spray with our Defense Antimicrobial Skin Cleanser
• Wear loose-fitting cotton underwear
• Sterilize gym clothes by washing in hot soapy water with bleach
Preventing Jock Itch: When to Seek Medical Care?
There is no substitute for professional medical advice or treatment especially if your fungal jock itch rashes are not improving. Once you have detected that you have jock itch fungus developing, go to the doctor if the rash:
• Spreads, changes appearance, or seems to get worse
• Becomes increasingly irritating and uncomfortable
• Develops swelling in the affected areas
• Does not go away completely
• Comes back frequently despite proper jock itch prevention
