Jock Itch Cure

Any man can recognize the signs of the dreaded fungal menace known as jock itch. In addition to itching in the groin, on the inner thigh and in the anal area, you'll see a raised rash that starts to clear in the center, forming a characteristic ring-like look. Since the last thing you want to do is to spend all day scratching yourself, you need to cure jock itch as quickly as possible. Try these treatment options and then take steps to keep jock itch from coming back

I. Treatment Options

1. Use an anti-fungal cream. Your best options include Lamisil, Lotrimin Ultra, and/or Naftin. These are more expensive, but they will get rid of jock itch faster. Prefer Lotrimin Ultra which contains Butenafine Hydrochloride over regular Lotrimin AF which just contains clotrimazole. Studies have shown Butenafine can be faster and more effective than clotrimazole. Furthermore, generic clotrimazole can be purchased for as low as a dollar a tube whereas regular Lotrimin AF (containing clotrimazole) can retail for up to 10 times that amount.

• You can also purchase cheaper creams containing clotrimazole or miconazole. These will take a little longer to work, but they will effectively wipe out jock itch.
• Even when the symptoms disappear, you need to apply cream to your groin area for the amount of time specified on the package. Just like you take antibiotics until all of the medicine is gone, you need to follow the full treatment regimen using your cream.
• Treat athlete's foot at the same time if you have it. Doing this will decrease the risk for recurrence. 

2. Keep your skin clean and dry. Make sure to dry yourself thoroughly after a shower because fungus thrives in warm, moist environments. When you can, either go without underwear or go naked to expose the affected area to air. When that's not feasible, at least wear boxers instead of briefs.

3. Avoid wearing any clothing that rubs or irritates your crotch. Avoid tight underwear and tight pants of any kind.

4. Refrain from scratching. Scratching will irritate the rash and could break your skin, creating the potential for infection.

• Trim your nails if you can't stop scratching. Wear gloves when you're trying to go to sleep at night.
• Take a cool bath for relief. Sprinkle the water with uncooked oatmeal, baking soda or a substance called colloidal oatmeal (Aveeno is a good brand) that is made specifically for the bath. Just dry your crotch thoroughly when you get out of the tub.

6. Talk to your doctor if the scaly redness doesn't go away within a couple of weeks, if it starts getting worse or if you notice that it's turned yellow and oozes. Your doctor can offer you a couple of options:

• Prescription creams: Doctors can prescribe prescription strength anti-fungals including econazole and oxiconazole.
• Antibiotics: If your jock itch has become infected, doctors can prescribe an antibiotic to help clear up the infection.
• Oral anti-fungal medications: Sporanox, Diflucan or Lamisil are all medications that your doctor may prescribe for you. You may experience gastrointestinal problems or abnormal liver function. If you're taking antacids or warfarin, you probably shouldn't take these medications. Another option, Grifulvin V, takes longer to work but seems good for people who are allergic to other anti-fungals or who have conditions that makes taking other medications a bad idea.

II. Preventing Future Episodes of Jock Itch

1. Shower daily. Don't wait long to shower after you've been perspiring heavily or exercising. Use mild soap and water, and avoid anti-bacterial and deodorant soaps. 
2. Keep your groin clean and dry at all times. If you find you're susceptible to jock itch, then cover your groin or athletic cup with anti-fungal or drying powders after you take a bath or shower.
3. Avoid clothing or underwear that irritates the area. Choose loose-fitting clothes with smooth fabrics. Wear boxers instead of briefs.
4. Wash your underwear and athletic supporter frequently. Also, never share your towels or your clothing with other people. Jock itch can spread by contact with unwashed clothing or athletic cups.
5. Put on your socks before you put on your underwear if you have athlete's foot. Doing this keeps the fungus from spreading to your groin from your feet. 
6. Take off wet swimsuits quickly. Change into something dry. Avoid carrying wet or sweaty clothing in your gym bag. Also, don't keep damp clothing in your locker. Instead, wash your gym clothes after each use