Ringworm of the groin does not only affect sportsmen, although they are particularly prone to it due to abundant sweating. It is a disorder that occurs indifferently in men and women. Basically it is a fungal infection that develops on the skin of the genital area, between the thighs and buttocks and that causes redness. However, it is quite easy to treat and you should be able to get rid of it rather quickly.
Steps
Part 1 of 2: Recognizing Inguine Ringworm
Step 1. Recognize the symptoms
The disorder presents as a red rash that covers the upper thighs, the skin of the genitals, reaching the back area between the buttocks and the anus.
- The rash can also be itchy and cause a burning sensation. If it spreads to the anus, the itch also affects this part.
- The affected areas have flakes, are swollen and raised.
- It is quite normal for bleeding, pus-filled blisters to form.
- The edges of the blisters are often red or silver in appearance, while the skin in the central area does not change color. The lesions can take on the classic round appearance of "ringworm", even if it is not this worm.
- The blisters enlarge when the mycosis spreads.
- The scrotum and penis generally do not become infected.
Step 2. Treat the disease with over-the-counter antifungals
Apply the medications according to the directions on the package.
- Among the solutions that you find without the need for a prescription are ointments, lotions, creams, powder solutions or sprays.
- Among the active ingredients effective against skin fungi we find miconazole, clotrimazole, terbinafine or tolnaftate.
- It takes several weeks of treatment for the infection to disappear completely.
Step 3. Go to the doctor if home care is not enough
If the infection lasts longer than two weeks, is particularly severe or recurs, you need to find stronger treatments.
- Your doctor may prescribe stronger medications, which can be oral or topical.
- If the mycosis is accompanied by a secondary bacterial infection caused by constant scratching, then the doctor will also prescribe antibiotics.
Part 2 of 2: Prevention
Step 1. Keep your groin clean and dry
If you are an athlete, take a shower immediately after a training session to prevent fungus from developing. Fungi thrive in damp, dark places.
- After a shower, dry yourself thoroughly.
- Apply powder solutions such as talcum powder to keep the skin dry for a long time.
Step 2. Wear comfortable clothing
Don't wear undergarments that are too tight, which can trap moisture between your legs.
- If you are a man, wear boxers instead of briefs.
- When you sweat, change your underwear immediately.
Step 3. Don't use other people's towels in public changing rooms and don't share their clothes
Fungi are not only spread by simple skin contact, but also through clothing.
Step 4. Treat athlete's foot incisively
This infection can also spread to the groin area and turn into groin ringworm. Do not share shoes or socks and do not walk barefoot in public restrooms.
Step 5. If you have any risk factors that make you particularly vulnerable, be very careful
People with health problems often experience relapses. Among these pathologies are:
- Obesity;
- Compromised immune system;
- Atopic dermatitis.
