Jock itch or tinea cruris as it is medically known is a relatively common fungal infection that unlike most other conditions is largely prevalent among men. The condition is also commonly known as crotch itch, crotch rot or scrot rot and as the names suggest it is an infection that afflicts the groin area. Tinea infections are among the most common and widespread of fungal infections and this infection is caused by dermatophytes.
Jock itch may afflict the groins but it can also affect the thigh skin folds and the anal area or inner thighs. In fact in cases where the rash advances it usually tends to spread down the inner thigh. The affected skin will take on a reddish and tanned appearance and there would also be a peeling, cracking or flaking of skin that leaves the skin sore. The condition may not be life threatening or very serious but the itching it causes is quite severe and this can be extremely annoying and even more embarrassing and discomforting. Reaching for your genitals in public is quite unacceptable to say the least! The condition can however be treated quite effectively at home itself with some simple natural remedies.
Fungal infections or fungi thrive in warm and moist environments, and the fungi responsible for jock itch are no exception. The groin area offers the fungus an ideal habitat to thrive and produce an infection. It is therefore extremely important that you keep the area clean and dry at all times. Basic hygiene is in fact the most important aspect of treatment, without which no natural remedy or treatment will help. You can cleanse the area while bathing or showering, but make it a point to only use mild and natural soaps, preferably with antifungal properties. After cleansing the area always dust on an antifungal powder as this will help fight the infection and keep the area dry. Do this before donning your underwear too. Restrict your attire to cotton garments as this will allow for better ventilation and enable any perspiration to evaporate. Make it a point to change your clothes the moment they get even slightly sweaty, and never share clothing or towels and linen with others.
Useful remedies would include:
- Tea Tree Oil: Either applied directly or added to a warm bath for a soak.
- Garlic: Garlic or garlic oil can be used to prepare a compress for direct application, or you could even consume garlic cloves.
- Warm Salt Bath: A ten or twenty minute soak in a warm bath with salt added in can also help fight the infection.
answered by S D