Jock Itch

Description

Jock itch, or groin ringworm, is a fungal infection of the skin that causes an intense itching and burning sensation in the groin area and inner thigh that may extend to anus and abdomen. The condition is caused by a variety of fungi, which also cause athlete's foot. While jock itch is much more common in men, women can suffer from it as well. (In women, the condition is usually caused by a yeast infection.)

The fungus that causes jock itch thrives on moist, sweaty skin; for this reason, people who sweat a lot, such as athletes and obese people, are at increased risk for developing the condition. People with diabetes are also at increased risk.

Signs and Symptoms

• Itching in the anal and groin area; the rash may spread to the inner thighs and buttocks
• Burning in the affected area
• Fine, red rash covering the affected area

Conventional Medical Treatment

Jock itch can be treated-and prevented-with homecare. Wash the affected area two or three times per day, and after drying the skin thoroughly, apply an antifungal drying powder to the area. (Do not overuse antifungal powder-if you use it on an area more than three times a day, your skin can become dry and irritated.) You also may want to smooth on an over-the-counter antifungal cream before going to bed at night. If your jock itch persists despite continued homecare, contact your health care provider.

Complementary and Alternative Treatments

Nutrition and Supplementation

Fungi thrive on sugar, so avoid all sugars and refined carbohydrates. Equally important to avoid are colas, grains, processed foods, and fried or greasy foods. Dairy and meat produce mucus, so steer clear of those. Nutritionists recommend the following daily supplements:

Most Important

• a prodophilus formula (as directed on label)-replaces friendly bacteria usually deficient in people with fungal infections
• garlic (as directed on label)-neutralizes most fungi
• vitamin B complex (50 mg 3 times daily)-correctly balances friendly bacteria
• vitamin C with bioflavonoids (5000 to 20,000 mg)-aids in proper immune function
• vitamin E (400 to 800 IU)-necessary for proper immune function
• zinc (50 mg, not to exceed a total of 100 mg from all supplements)-necessary for proper immune function

Also Recommended

• vitamin A (25,000 IU; do not exceed 8000 if you are pregnant)-heals skin and mucous membranes
• olive leaf extract supplement (as directed on label)
• caprylic acid formula (taken internally as directed on label)

(For an acute condition, take supplements until your symptoms subside. If symptoms persist, seek the advice of your healthcare provider. For a chronic condition, consult your health care provider regarding the duration of treatment.)

Traditional Chinese Medicine

Chinese Herbal Therapy Cnidium monnieri, eucommia, and licorice may be made into an external wash and used to treat jock itch. The patent medicines Margarite Acne Pills and Lien Chiao Pai Tu Pien also may help alleviate any itchiness.