Fungus. It’s a pain in the butt or, more often, an itch at the groin — or the feet. Now, we’re not talking about mushrooms here, we’re talking about jock itch and athlete’s foot. Most people have small amounts of these fungi growing on their bodies. That’s normal and isn’t a problem. But if the conditions are right for the fungus, it will multiply and become an infection. These fungi grow best in covered up areas of the body where dampness is easily maintained, which is why they pop up so often on our feet and groin.
Athlete’s Foot
What is it?
Technically known as Tinea pedis, an athlete’s foot is simply a fungal infection on your feet, usually found in teenage and adult men.
What does it look like, and how do I know if I have it? The athlete’s foot generally comes in one of two forms: a dry, scaly rash on the bottom of one’s feet, or dry cracks between the toes. The most common symptom of an athlete’s foot is itching. This is the symptom that usually alerts most people that they have an athlete’s foot.
How do I keep from getting it?
If you follow these simple rules, chances are you won’t ever get athlete’s foot:
- Wash your feet every day.
- Make sure to dry your feet thoroughly after bathing, especially between your toes.
- Wear cotton socks and change them every day. Also, change them after playing sports or anything else that makes your sweaty or wet.
I have athlete’s foot, now what?
While it may be an annoyance, an athlete’s foot is easy to treat. There are many over-the-counter anti-fungal creams and other ointments made specifically to fight athlete’s foot, including Tinactin®, and Lotrimin®. Keep in mind, it is always best to visit your health care provider before starting treatment. Make sure to apply the cream twice a day — after washing and thoroughly drying your feet. If you have two pairs of shoes, alternate wearing them every other day. If you are still experiencing any symptoms of athlete’s foot after two weeks, be sure to go back to your clinician.
Jock Itch
What is it?
Just as is athlete’s foot, jock itch is a fungal infection with a funny-sounding Latin name. Even harder to pronounce, Tinea cruris is very similar to an athlete’s foot, except that it thrives around the groin and inner thighs.
Why is it called jock itch?
Athletes that wear jockstraps (athletic supporters) and store them unwashed in their gym lockers frequently can easily get this fungal infection. A sweaty athletic supporter that is worn again and again without being washed creates the perfect environment for the fungus to grow in. However, although the infection is named after jocks, you can get jock itch whether you are an athlete or not.
What does it look like and how do I know if I have it?
The most common symptoms of jock itch are itching, redness, and scaliness that can become inflamed and painful — around the groin and inner thighs. While those with jock itch may be scratching around their groin a lot, the fungus usually doesn’t grow on the penis or scrotum, but rather on the surrounding skin.
How do I keep from getting it?
The best way of preventing jock itch is to keep clean and dry. Take a shower or bath every day, and dry off completely before putting on your underwear. Wear loose-fitting cotton underwear, and be sure to change it every day. If you wear an athletic jockstrap, make sure to wash it after every use. Also, bathe or shower after working out or playing sports, and change into clean underwear.
I have jock itch, now what?
You can use medications specifically made to treat both jock itch and athlete’s foot, and ones made to treat jock itch alone. However, do NOT use medications made for athlete’s foot only because these creams and powders are too strong for sensitive areas like the groin. Cruex® and Desenex® are two name brands of over-the-counter, anti-fungal medicines used to treat jock itch. Just as with an athlete’s foot, if you think you have a jock itch, it’s best to visit your health care provider. She or he can recommend the best medicine for you