Jock itch or tinea cruris is a fungal infection that causes a red, itchy rash in warm and moist areas of the body like folds of skin, groin, buttocks, underarms, neck, back of the knees, etc. It often affects the groin and inner thighs so it gets the name “Jock itch”.

It is Contagious can spread from person to person by sharing towels or clothing with an infected person. Although often uncomfortable and bothersome, jock itch usually isn’t a serious condition.

Other Language names:  

Tamil name- கவட்டைப்படை- Kavattai padai.

Hind name- धोबी खुजली- dhobee khujalee

CAUSES

• Fungal Infection- The micro-organisms that cause jock itch thrive in damp environments. It is caused by a fungus that spreads from person to person from sharing contaminated towels or clothing with others. Sometimes it can spread from athlete’s foot ( fungal infection in between toes from tight fitting shoes or excessive sweat which is commonly seen in athlete)

RISK FACTORS

• Wearing tight underwear
• Overweight or obese person
• Sweat heavily
• Diabetes mellitus

SYMPTOMS

• Red rashes – Rashes usually of ring shape or half-moon shape bordered with a line of small blisters. It appears most often on groins and spreads downwards to upper thigh.
• Itching or burning
• Flaky or scaly skin on affected area.

COMPLICATIONS

• It often causes increased pigmentation of affected area.
• Excessive use of topical steroids or ointments may cause hidden or masked form of infection (tinea incognita) which makes it difficult to confirm the diagnosis.

DIAGNOSIS

• Clinical examination – by your doctor to detect the extension rashes and scales.
• Skin biopsy – scraping the affected area for test to detect the other associated skin conditions.
• Blood tests – to detect fungal infection; to detect Diabetes

GENERAL MANAGEMENT

Reduce your risk of jock itch or tinea cruris by taking these steps:

• Stay clean and dry – Dry your genital area and inner thighs thoroughly with a clean towel after showering, after washing or exercising.
• Wear clean clothes – Wear underwear made up of cotton or other fabric that breathes and keeps the skin drier. Wash your workout clothes after each use.
• Find the correct fitting cloth –Make sure your clothes fit correctly, especially underwear, sports uniforms and athletic supporters. Avoid using tight-fitting clothes, which can rub and chafe your skin and put you at increased risk of infection.
• Don’t share personal items – your clothing, towels or other personal items. Also don’t borrow such items from others.
• Treat or prevent athlete’s foot infection – to prevent its spread to the groin. If you spend time in damp, moist public areas, such as a gym shower, wearing sandals will help to prevent athlete’s foot.

HOMEOPATHIC MANAGEMENT

Jock itch or tinea cruris clears with appropriate treatment in 80-90% of cases. However, recurrence is very common, especially if underlying risk factors are not addressed or Homeopathic treatment is stopped before complete cure.

For rapid recovery and to reduce recurrence Homeopathy is strongly suggested.

Consult your Homeopathic Doctor immediately if:

• Widespread and painful rash.
• Severe itching or burning.
• Rash hasn’t improve after weeks.
• Reappears even after treatment.

For consultation and appointments write into contact@beingwellhomoeopathy.com