Tinea cruris, also called as jockitch, is a fungal infection of the skin. Jockitch is caused by a fungus known as dermatophytes. They are usually harmless and are found on the surface of the skin, hair, and nails. The fungus of jockitch can multiply in large amounts and can spread very rapidly on the skin. It thrives in the areas of the skin that are moist and warm. Jockitch usually develops on the skin of the groins, inner thighs, and buttocks. 

Jockitch is common in athletes and people who sweat a lot. It is more common in males compared to females. Jockitch mainly affects people who are overweight and those who tend to sweat more than usual. Also, jockitch can affect people with weak immune systems. The infection causes a rash that appears inflamed and round in shape. Jockitch causes tremendous itching and burning, making the skin scaly and flaky. Although jockitch is bothersome and uncomfortable, the condition isn’t usually severe and can be treated early to limit the spread of the infection. It usually clears up in 3-4 weeks by keeping the affected area clean and dry.  

Role of homeopathy in jockitch

Homeopathic medicines are used in jockitch to boost immunity. It helps the body to clear up the infection caused by fungus. Homeopathic medicines let the body’s immunity fight the infection caused by jockitch by activating the weak immune system. The medicines also help in clearing the associated symptoms of jockitch such as pain, burning, and itching.

 Five effective homeopathic medicines for jockitch

Graphites (Graph.)

Common name: Black lead

Graphites is prescribed for rough and dry skin. The skin may have moist and crusty eruptions that ooze a watery, gelatinous, and sticky fluid. There is itching all over, followed by burning and oozing discharge. The complaints get worse in warmth. 

 Sulphur (Sulph.)

Common name: Brimstone

Sulphur is indicated in recurrent skin infections when there is excessive itching and burning of the affected area. It is suited to cases where the skin affection is previously treated with ointments and local medication. Sensitivity to weather changes and washing is also seen in such people. The complaints are aggravated by warmth in general. 

 Silicea (Sil.)

Common name: Pure silica

Silicea is indicated in jockitch when excess sweating is present. It helps control the process of inflammation and suppuration in jockitch. There is foul-smelling sweat, which is intolerable and offensive. There is sensitivity to cold in general.

 Tellurium metallicum (Tell.)

Common name: Tellurium

Tellurium is indicated when the jockitch of the skin shows circular ring-like patches. There is a lot of itching and stinging in the affected area. The skin and the discharges have an offensive odor. 

 Sepia succus (Sepia.)

Common name: Cuttlefish

Sepia is a well-indicated homeopathic medicine where there are circulated isolated lesions. Itching is present, which is not relieved by scratching. In jockitch, the affected skin is dry, hard, and rough. Complaints are worse after washing, sweating, and in the spring season.

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 Causative factors of jockitch

Jockitch is caused by a group of fungus called the dermatophytes. Tight underwear or pants trap heat and moisture around your groin. The fungi of jockitch multiply in moist and warm areas of the body, such as groins, inner thighs, and buttocks, causing infection. The infection of jockitch is in the form of a reddish color rash, which spreads widely if not taken care of. The fungi are very contagious. The rash of jockitch can spread from person to person through skin-to-skin contact. Jockitch can also spread through shared clothes and towels.

 Signs and symptoms of jockitch

  • Redness 
  • Irresistible itching
  • Burning sensation
  • Rapidly spreading rash
  • Rash with circular ring-shaped appearance
  • Rash with borders or blisters
  • Painful rash
  • Scaly, flaky, or cracking skin
  • Change in skin color of the affected areas

Treatment and management of jockitch

Jockitch is treated using topical creams, ointments, or dusting powder. Oral medications include antifungals that help in relieving the symptoms and getting rid of the fungal infection.

Other modes of treatment include personal hygiene methods as follows:

  • Keep the area clean and dry

Wash the affected area everyday with antibacterial soap and keep it dry after bathing. Apply dusting or antifungal powder around the groin to prevent infection from spreading. 

  • Washing hands regularly

Please wash your hands after it comes in contact with the affected area. It helps prevent the infection from spreading to other body parts and not infect other people. 

  • Avoid tight-fitting clothes

Tight-fitting clothes have a chance of trapping heat inside the inner areas of the body. The trapped heat can lead to excessive sweating and retain moisture. Thus making the skin an ideal spot for the growth of fungus and cause jockitch. 

  • Avoid scratching 

Scratching the affected part may cause fungus to spread to other body parts through your hands. 

  • Do not share personal items

Don’t share your towels or clothes with others. Also, don’t borrow such items from others.

  Diet and lifestyle modifications for jockitch

  • Eat acidophilus supplements that help the body build immunity against jockitch and improve the body’s resistance to fungal infections.
  • Wear loose and comfortable clothing in humid and hot weather. This may help the skin to remain dry and prevent the jockitch fungus from spreading.
  • Take a bath immediately after physical exercise or sweating.
  • Dry the skin entirely after washing.

 Conclusion

Jockitch is a contagious fungal infection that develops in the folds of the skin. The moisture gets trapped due to excessive sweating, making the fungus multiply in large amounts. The infection in jockitch is usually mild. It is common in males, teens, and people who are overweight. Jockitch also affects people with weak immune systems or those with underlying health conditions. The treatment of jockitch usually includes keeping the area dry and maintaining good hygiene. 

Homeopathic medicines are prescribed for jockitch, taking into consideration the overall well-being of the person. The medication acts on the immune system to help the body fight against the fungal infection of jockitch through its self-healing powers. The body is able to treat the cause and the symptoms associated with the infection. Homeopathic medicines for jockitch are natural sources that are safe to consume and free from any side effects.  

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