Description

Ringworm is a fungal skin infection that causes an itchy rash in warm, moist areas of the body. The rash often affects the area of the groin and inner thighs, and you can be in the form of a ring. The condition is also called tinea cruris.

Jock itch gets its name because it is common in athletes. It is also common in people who sweat a lot. The condition can vary from mild to severe. This usually goes away in 1 to 3 weeks with antifungal creams and self-care.

Symptoms

The symptoms of ringworm are:

  • The extension of the rash that begins on the fold of the groin and moves down the upper part of the thigh and the buttocks.
  • A rash in the centre of which tend to clear as the rash spreads.
  • A rash which may be wholly or partly in the form of a ring.
  • A rash surrounded by small blisters.
  • The itching.
  • Peeling of the skin.
  • A skin rash that can be red, brown, purple, or gray depending on their skin color.

When to see a doctor

Consult your doctor if the rash is painful or has a fever. And seek medical attention if rash has not improved after a week of self-care with the type of antifungal product that you can get without a prescription. Also seek medical attention if rash has not disappeared completely after three weeks of treatment.

Causes

Jock itch is caused by fungi that thrive in warm, moist areas of the body. Jock itch is often caused by the same organism that causes athlete's foot. The rash may spread from person-to-person contact with the skin, or sharing towels or clothing contaminated. You can also spread an infection from the foot to the groin by means of hands or a towel.

Risk factors

You are at greater risk of jock itch if:

  • They are men.
  • You are a teenager or a young adult.
  • Underwear, jeans, or tight clothing.
  • Sweating in excess.
  • Have a weak immune system.
  • Have athlete's foot.

Prevention

Tips to reduce the risk of ringworm include:

  • Stay dry. Keep the area of the groin and inner thighs dry by drying with a clean towel after a shower or exercise. Dry your feet last to prevent the spread of athlete's foot to the groin area.
  • Wear clean clothes. Change your underwear at least once a day or more often if you sweat a lot. It helps to wear underwear made of cotton or other fabric that breathes and keeps the skin drier. Wash your workout clothes after each use.
  • Finding the right fit. Choose underwear, athletic supporters and sports uniforms that fit well. Tight clothing can rub on your skin and the risk of jock itch. Try wearing boxer shorts instead of briefs.
  • Do not share personal items. Do not allow other people to use your clothes, towels or other personal items. Don't borrow these items from others.
  • Treat or prevent athlete's foot. Control of athlete's foot to prevent its spread to the groin. To prevent athlete's foot by wearing waterproof shoes around public pools and showers, and locker rooms.

Diagnosis

It is likely that your doctor will be able to diagnose jock itch by looking at the rash. If the diagnosis is not certain, your doctor may take a skin scraping of the affected area for analysis in the laboratory.

Treatment

For a mild jock itch, your doctor may suggest the use of an antifungal ointment, cream or gel that can be purchased without a prescription. Apply the medication for at least a week after the rash disappears.

Serious jock itch or a rash that does not improve with over the counter medications may need prescription-strength creams, ointments, or pills, or a combination of these products.

If you also have athlete's foot is usually treated at the same time as jock itch to reduce the risk of skin rash that comes back.

Preparing for your appointment

Your primary care provider or a skin specialist (dermatologist) can diagnose jock itch. Here are some tips to help you prepare for your appointment.

What you can do

Before your appointment, you can be who you want to the list of questions to ask your doctor. Examples include:

  • What is the most likely cause of my symptoms?
  • The tests are necessary to confirm the diagnosis?
  • What treatments are available?
  • Is this condition temporary or long-term?
  • Is there a generic alternative to the medicine you're prescribing?
  • What can I do to prevent the spread of infection?
  • What skin care routines do you recommend as the condition is cured?

What to expect from your doctor

Your health care provider is likely to ask a series of questions, such as:

  • When did you first notice your symptoms?
  • What did the eruption of look when she first started?
  • Have had this type of rash in the past?
  • Is the eruption of pain or itching?
  • Have you used any of the drugs on him already? If so, what?
Symptoms and treatment of Ringworm