Ringworm Athletes Foot Groin

Ringworm Athlete’s Foot Groin

Superficial fungal infections of the skin, known as dermatophytes, are some of the most common self-treatable trivial medical conditions affecting the population today. As many as one in five Americans have a dermatophyte infection at any particular time. When talking about the number of people affected the overall frequency is exceeded only by acne. Dermatophytes are limited to the upper layer of skin, where they subsist on the dead skin cells called keratin. There are several common dermatophytic infections constantly active in the United States. Ringworm, athlete’s foot, groin infection or what is commonly referred to as jock itch, are also quite common. It is difficult to determine the exact incidence of groin infections. It is not a reportable disease. Another factor that hinders documenting cases is the fact that patients are able to recognize it and treat it until it is cured.

Itching of the groin and in the genital area can be bacterial, but more often than not is caused by fungal infections. Humidity and moisture are contributing factors to coming down with any fungal infection. What occurs is similar to the growth patterns that are seen in molds, mildew, and similar plant species. They prefer warmth and moisture to be more specific. Clothing that fits tightly is thought to be an influencing factor in most fungal groin infections. For women, wearing pants instead of dresses has been labeled as one such influencing factor. Two significant factors come into play here. The first is the potential for moisture to accumulate underneath tight confining garments. Another is the risk of wearing clothing that has become contaminated and is not cleaned well. That is why most experts will recommend boiling the underclothing or contaminated garments thoroughly to minimize the occasion of the infection coming back.

The fungi that cause athlete’s foot also may cause jock itch or tinea cruris, which is an infection of the groin.  Toenail infection (onychomycosis), and fungal infection of the hand called tinea manuum can also be spread by athlete’s foot fungi. Vice versa having any of these other fungal infections is a risk factor for athlete’s foot. Most people who get this rash are in good health. Ringworm, athlete’s foot, groin infections occur more often in teenagers and young adults.   These infections are also more likely to show up if a person is experiencing hormonal imbalances or has a suppressed immune system.