Causes and Treatment of fungal-related jock itch

Jock itch is caused by fungi called dermatophytes .The cause of jock itch is a common fungal or yeast infection. Although the term "jock itch" implies some sort of relationship with athletics, this is not necessarily true. Jock itch is particularly related infections from microorganisms and environmental factors such as humidity and friction, which can irritate the skin. Jock itch generally suffered when the body's defenses are slightly down. Jock itch is more common in men than in women simply because the presence of male genitalia leads to increased friction and humidity. Women are actually predisposed to develop a similar condition underneath their breast. Jock itch is most often caused simply by noninfected skin affected by friction, humidity, and heat. However, it is not uncommon for microorganisms like fungi and bacteria to simultaneously infect the skin.

Some people are particularly sensitive to jock itch and need to take care with their diet, and avoid eating yeasts and refined carbohydrates. This is why Yeast sensitivity can be classed as Food Intolerance. However it can also be confused with other conditions.Jock itch can spread from person to person by shared use of contaminated towels or clothing or through direct contact during sexual intercourse with someone who has the infection.

Fungal molds like Epidermophyton floccosum and Trichophytin species are occasionally responsible for the epidemic infections in dormitories, barracks, and similar situations in which people live close together and in which towels, sheets, blankets, and other items may harbor a fungus for years.
Bacterial jock itch can be easily diagnosed because the affected skin glows a coral red color when illuminated by a black light.

Jock itch can be prevented by applying large amounts of lubricant, like petroleum jelly, to areas likely to be affected. Wearing tight clothes or athletic supporters can predispose one to infection or aggravate the problem further.The fungus is spread by contact with the spores, which may survive on dead skin cells or objects for a long time.

Jock Itch Treatment

Treatment of fungal-related jock itch may include one or a combination of antifungal shampoos to wash the groin, antifungal creams, and rarely antifungal pills. Treatment of jock itch that is not caused by fungus involves proper groin hygiene, keeping the area clean and dry, and washing frequently with gentle soap and water. Jock itch is best treated with topical creams or ointments since the fungus only affects the top layer of skin. The creams and ointments can be purchased at a pharmacy or prescribed by your doctor. If what you have is jock itch, it usually improves within two weeks from the start of treatment. Treatment consists of:

* Be careful not to over treat the area, as this can lead to further irritation.

* Clean the area using mild soap and warm water. Hydrogen peroxide is not recommended because it can irritate and worsen the infection. Use drying powders if excessive perspiration is an issue.
Avoiding chafing by wearing loose fitting cloths.

* Applying over-the-counter anti-fungal creams or powders recommended for jock itch, following the regimen outlined in the accompanying instructions.

* Washing and thoroughly drying the affected area, especially after workouts.