Jock itch is an infection of the groin area caused by fungus. It occurs almost exclusively in adult men.
The fungus that causes jock itch thrives in warm, moist areas and can be triggered by friction from clothes or prolonged wetness in the groin area (i.e. sweating).
The body normally hosts a variety of bacteria and fungi. Some of these are useful to the body, while others can multiply rapidly and cause an infection. Jock itch results when a particular type of fungus grows and multiplies in the groin area.
Jock itch usually responds to self-care within a couple of weeks:
- keep the skin clean and dry
- don’t wear clothing that rubs and irritates the area
- apply topical over-the-counter antifungal or drying powders
Jock itch usually responds promptly to treatment, but some cases last a long time.
Prevent the prevent-able by:
- wear loose fitting underwear
- keeping your groin area clean & dry
- avoid tight fitting & rough-textured clothing
- don’t wear clothing that rubs and irritates the area
- wash your athletic supporters frequently, commonly known as jock straps
- after bathing, apply antifungal or drying powders if you are susceptible to jock itch.
Remember: Throwing your jock strap into your locker for use the next day is not a good idea. Keep your jock strap clean to keep jock itch away.
