Jock Itch (Tinea Cruris) - Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Quick Facts:

1. Jock itch is the type of rash that affects the groin area in men.

2. It is a fungal infection that results from moisture and bacterial overgrowth.

3. It results in pink or red rashes, itching, foul odor, and irritation.

4. It is commonly seen in obese individuals, athletes, and older adults.

5. In most cases, jock itch resolves without treatment.

6. This infection can be prevented by maintaining proper hygiene.

What Is Jock Itch?

Jock itch, otherwise called tinea cruris, is a fungal infection that usually affects men. It gives rise to rashes in the skin of the genitals, inner thighs, and buttocks. The rashes are itchy, pink or red, and mostly ring-shaped. They generally develop in the warm and most parts of the body, as it is the perfect environment for the fungus to grow.

Mold-like fungi known as dermatophytes often cause jock itch. These fungi live on human skin, hair, and nail. They are usually harmless, but due to poor hygiene and sweat, they find the perfect environment to multiply and cause infection.

Jock itch is more common in athletes, obese people, and people who sweat a lot. It is not a serious infection but can cause discomfort and irritation. This infection is treated by keeping the groin area clean and dry, and by applying antifungal powder or cream.

What Does a Jock Itch Look Like?

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Jock itch starts with mild itching in the groin, which progresses to become severe. The rash appears on both sides of the groin, and mainly affects the folds. The signs and symptoms of jock itch are:

• Redness.

• Constant itching.

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• Burning or stinging sensation.

• The skin becomes red or pink.

• The skin looks flaky or cracking.

• The rash becomes more with exercise.

• The rash worsens on the application of Hydrocortisone cream.

The areas affected are the groin, inner thighs, and it may spread to the buttocks and abdomen. The scrotum is generally not affected. If the rash does not get better in a couple of weeks or it keeps coming back, then consult a dermatologist immediately.

The rash can develop pus-filled blisters and begin to ooze, or it may dry and become rough. Jock itch can also affect women, and it can result in rashes in the labia, vagina, and anus. Women might also have white vaginal discharge.

What Are the Causes of Jock Itch?

Jock itch is a highly contagious fungal infection. It is caused by a ringworm fungal infection and can spread from person to person through contact or sharing clothes. You can also get infected by using exercise equipment that has this fungus on its surface.

This fungus thrives in warm and moist environments, so people who sweat a lot due to being overweight or exercise are at risk. Some of the other factors that increase the risk of developing jock itch are:

1. Men are susceptible than women.

2. People who sweat a lot.

3. Obese or overweight people, as they have more skin folds.

4. Diabetic patients.

5. Teenagers and young adults are more susceptible.

6. Individuals who wear tight clothes and innerwear, as such clothes trap moisture in the skin.

7. Immunocompromised patients or people with a weak immune system.

How Is Jock Itch Diagnosed?

Your physician will be able to diagnose jock itch with the help of the symptoms and appearance. In some cases, the doctor might suggest you get some of the following tests:

• Skin lesion KOH exam - A sample is collected by scraping the lesion, which is then covered with a drop of potassium hydroxide and examined under a microscope. This will confirm a fungal infection.

• Fungal culture test - Sometimes, the skin scraping is given for a fungal culture.

• Wood’s light examination - Light is used to examine the rash.

• Skin biopsy - In rare cases, a small skin sample is cut from the lesion for lab examination.

Skin biopsies are rarely done to distinguish jock itch from the following similar-looking conditions:

1. Ringworm infection.

2. Inverse psoriasis.

3. Contact dermatitis.

4. Intertrigo.

5. Impetigo.

6. Diaper rash.

7. Heat rash.

8. Familial pemphigus.

What Are the Treatment Options of Jock Itch?

Home Remedies:

Most cases of jock itch can be treated effectively with the following home remedies -

• Wash your groin area and other affected area properly with soap and warm water.

• Pat these areas dry with a soft towel gently.

• Dry the area properly after exercise.

• You can apply over-the-counter antifungal cream or powder on the rash.

• Wash your clothes and undergarments properly.

• Always wear loose cotton clothes.

• Make it a point to change your undergarments daily.

Even if after a couple of weeks you see no improvement, then consult a doctor immediately.

Medications:

Your doctor will prescribe stronger antifungal medicines, which might include:

• Topical medications - Econazole, Oxiconazole.

• Oral medications - Itraconazole, Fluconazole.

Preventive Tips:

To reduce the risk of jock itch, you can try the following:

1. Keep your genital area and inner thighs clean and dry at all times.

2. To prevent excess sweat in these places, use talcum powder.

3. Wash your clothes after a workout.

4. Make it a point to change your undergarments at least once daily.

5. Wear clothes that fit you properly and avoid wearing tight clothes and undergarments.

6. Do not share clothes, towels, and other personal items with others.

7. If you have rashes on your feet (athlete’s foot), get it treated.

Maintaining good personal hygiene will help prevent jock itch to a great extent. To get more information on jock itch, consult a dermatologist online now!