Jock Itch; A Man Thing

Jock itch is, as it name clearly states, a fungal infection of the groin area’s skin. In this case, the groin is considered to include upper thighs, the pubic region and genitals. Caused by dermatophytes – the fungi that cause jock itch – these are able to cause infection and live on dead skin cells (aka dead skin, hair and nails). As a gender group, males are the most likely to suffer from this condition, and it is adolescent boys and adult men who are at a higher risk of suffering from jock itch.

If at some point you thought bad erections were the only thing that could affect your beloved groin area you were wrong. Even when there are thousands of men buying generic Viagra right this second, there are other conditions that too can develop in the groin area. Basically, jock itch lives happier in moist environments. In pubescent and grown men, hairy areas like the pubic region are known to generate and accumulate significant amounts of moisture.

Not only is hair growth to blame. Compared to women, for example, most men are likely to wear more closed off clothing, making the production and confinement of moisture more likely. Also, skin flap overlaying will cause sweat to appear and remain trapped. The scrotum is a good example. Due to location, the scrotum overlays the thigh area, causing moisture to accumulate and continue generating. Though natural for this kind of moisture to take place, accumulation for extended periods due to lack of ventilation is what causes Jock itch to take place.

Jock itch is likelier to happen under given circumstances and due to certain conditions. Not only clothing and material are key for this fungi to reproduce, but function equipment like jock straps are likely to help in this itchy process. Because jock straps cause confinement of moisture in the groin area specifically, men playing sports that require a cup or strap are at a higher risk of suffering the consequences of jock itch. Hard plastic shells, strapped on by elastic bands that retain moisture as well are the ideal environment for this fungi to make an entrance and stay.

The environment is also a big contributor to outbreaks of jock itch. Even when winter makes us wear layer after layer of clothing, it is during the summer, that most jock itch cases burst. The constant sweating during both day and night, combined with wet swim wear worn throughout the day, make for great growth pools of jock itch. However, winter time is not to discarded as a possible causing season of jock itch. As said before, those layers can build up pretty thick, making the groin area quite warm – just what dermatophytes like best.

The best way to treat jock itch is taking preventive measures. Keeping good hygiene habits, including personal care and proper washing of sports equipment like jock straps, cups, etc. and underwear and linens is recommended. Usually, proper ventilation will cause natural evaporation, causing the infection to slowly begin to cure. However, using clean cotton underwear is a good way to start off treatment. Topical medication is also available for more extreme cases in which skin has gone soft and pus has developed.

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