Spend enough time at the gym, and you'll get the rippling biceps you've always deamed about. But spend enough time in the locker room afterward, and you may also get a nightmare case of jock itch.
What puts the itch in jock itch? A fungus called trichophyton. This fungus loves warm, moist places such as a locker room—and your groin area. The fungus often spreads through towels that have not been properly cleaned. So consider packing your own towel instead of using the freebies at the gym.
Some natural remedies, used in conjunction with medical care and your doctor's approval, may help relieve jock itch, according to some health professionals.
FOOD THERAPY
Garlic may bring quicker relief because of its antifungal qualities. Eat as much as possible at the first signs of jock itch. It's also a good idea to avoid east products such as breads, baked goods and alcohol, which may make some people more prone to getting jock itch.
Warning: Eating raw garlic can cause gastrointestinal upset. If you find you have trouble tolerating raw garlic, try garlic supplements instead. Take one capsule with every meal.
Consult Your Health Care Provider When:
- Your itching has lasted for more than a week without relief.
- Your itching is accompanied by or causes severe redness.
- Your itching precedes formation of a blister or sore.
- Your genitals are extremely itchy and the sensation seems to have spread to other parts of your body.