$Unique_ID{BRK02002}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{Causes and Treatment of Jock Itch}
$Subject{jock itch jock-itch tinea cruris fungi fungus yeast groin rash
hygiene}
$Volume{}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1993  Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Causes and Treatment of Jock Itch


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QUESTION:  Maybe this question is not suited for the dinner table
conversation, but I hope you will be ale to provide an answer.  It is
certainly a misery for those of us who suffer with "jock-itch".  Can you
tell me what it is, where it comes from, and most important of all, what I
can do about it.  Hurry, please, for it always gets worse during the hot
weather.  I hope you can find the right words to reply to this question.

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ANSWER:  I will certainly find them, and choose them most carefully as well.
The medical name for this "misery" is "tinea cruris" and this annoying problem
can be caused by a number of fungi and yeasts.  Typically this skin condition
affects the folds in the groin and the inner thigh, and sometimes this scaly,
itchy rash may extend to the buttocks.  The rash forms ring-like shapes on the
skin, and is often crossed with scratch marks.  Summer and hot weather can
make the condition worse because of body moisture, and tight clothing favors
the growth of the organisms.  Keeping clean and dry can help prevent the
development of jock itch.  Use body powder, or even a hair dryer (set on its
lowest temperature) to keep the region dry.  Once the organism is identified,
there are a number of medications that can help you fight this infection.
Check with your physician or pharmacist.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.