Jock itch is a form of ringworm that causes a rash to form in the groin area. This rash may be accompanied by itching, pain, scaling of the skin or blister-like bumps in the affected area. It is very similar to athlete’s foot and is caused by fungi that come from the same genus.
As the name implies, male athletes are those who tend to come down with cases of jock itch the most, but they are by no means the only group of people who can contract the fungus. The reason athletes are more susceptible is that they tend to spend more time in areas where the fungus that causes jock itch is likely to grow and spread. Places like locker rooms and public showers because the jock itch fungus thrives in warm, moist areas. Because of this, the groin and foot areas are also hospitable environments for this type of ringworm.
If you have athlete’s foot, it is important to dry your feet last after bathing and to put on socks before putting on your underwear to avoid spreading the fungus from your feet to your groin. Likewise, if you have both jock itch and athlete’s foot at the same time, you should continue treatments until both infections have cleared up to avoid spreading the fungus from your groin to your feet or vice versa.
The best ways to prevent jock itch are by washing clothes, towels, underwear and socks after use. This will prevent the ringworm that causes jock itch from growing in those items. Also, be sure to wear shower shoes when using public showers or locker rooms.
If you think you might have contracted jock itch, your dermatologist can prescribe products that are effective at treating jock itch. With treatment, most cases of jock itch will clear up in a couple of weeks.
If you need more serious help with skin issues or something else that is troubling your skin, we are here to help. Skin health is an important part of total body wellness. Schedule an appointment today with one of our board certified physicians to get your skin the care it needs so it can reach its fullest, healthiest potential.
Contact Knoxville Dermatology Group at 865.690.9467.
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