Treatment for Jock Itch

I am a handicapped male and somewhat overweight. My days are spent in a wheelchair and I tend to sweat a lot in genital area which causes chafing and rash. What would help me?
(22 Jun 2009)

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Chafing and a rash on the skin in the area of the groins is not uncommon as a symptom of jock itch. Jock itch is a fungal infection and as with any other fungi, it thrives in a damp and warm environment. Tinea cruris as it is medically known, is not a threatening or serious infection, but is a great source of irritation and embarrassment, and may even cause some pain.

The conditions that you describe are typical of a fungal infection like jock itch, as it is more likely to affect men who perspire a lot, and also those who are over weight. It usually affects the skin of the genitals, buttocks and the inner thighs, causing itchy, reddish patches of skin. The good part however is that the condition can be easily treated at home itself.

Keeping in mind that fungi require certain specific conditions to thrive, you first need to ensure that they are denied any such opportunity. Treatment therefore focuses on two crucial aspects – hygiene and remedies. Hygiene is also important as the infection is contagious and can easily be passed on to others.

Over the counter pharmaceutical medications are very effective when dealing with fungal infections. The infection can in fact be cured completely in as little as two or three weeks. Any application or ointments administered to the affected skin should however be backed up by appropriate lifestyle changes, which would include basic hygiene practices. There are also quite a few home remedies that can be used to facilitate

It is very important that you keep the area clean and dry at all times. Make sure you cleanse thoroughly using a gentle natural soap or use colloidal oatmeal instead of soaps. Garlic has very strong antifungal properties too and can be included in your diet or applied onto the area in combination with honey. A warm soak in a tub with some tea tree oil added would be even better and also very relaxing. After a bath pr wash you can dab the area dry gently and even use a hair dryer on minimal heat to ensure that there is no moisture. Dust on some anti-fungal powder before donning any clothing as this will help minimize perspiration and moisture, and also work against the infection. Try to wear cotton undergarments and clothes as these will allow for better ventilation. Make it a point to get a change of undergarments and trousers as frequently as possible.

answered by S D on 22 Jun 2009, 1:31:14

Treatment for Jock Itch

I am a handicapped male and somewhat overweight. My days are spent in a wheelchair and I tend to sweat a lot in genital area which causes chafing and rash. What would help me? (22 Jun 2009)

I am a handicapped male and somewhat overweight. My days are spent in a wheelchair and I tend to sweat a lot in genital area which causes chafing and rash. What would help me?
(22 Jun 2009)