Ellen Campbell -Grizzle - PHARMACY TODAY JOCK ITCH (tinea cruris) or ringworm of the groin peaks at summertime. The infection is usually caused by a mold that invades the skin when the conditions are right. Heat, perspiration that occurs with exercise, rubbing of the legs leading to breaking of the skin are common contributory factors. Men are most commonly affected but women have been infected especially around the waist area.
Jock itch spreads easily in bathing areas or shower rooms. Transfer occurs when skin scales are shed from an infected person. The germ can survive for several hours outside the host and be picked up by another person using the facility. The infection starts with scaling irritation of the groin. A symmetrical rash with the shape of a butterfly develops on the front section of the thigh. The edge of the rash is very prominent and sometimes contains small pus containing bumps. The scrotum and penis are not usually involved.
Several other conditions that cause groin rash must be ruled out before treatment. A foul odour suggests the presence of bacteria for which non-prescription medicines are not appropriate. Persons with infections that are persistent and worsen while using non-prescription medicines must consult a physician.
TREATMENT
If you have Jock itch, you must keep the affected area as dry as possible and apply fragrance free talcum powder. Wear loose-fitting undergarments. All skin close to the ringworm must be treated. You must use personal wash rags, towels and grooming aids. Wash clothing, bedding and personal items carefully in hot water to control the spread of infection.
Seek advice from your pharmacist when you are choosing your medication. There are several products available in different dosage forms such as solutions, ointments, creams, powders and aerosols. For successful treatment, the correct drug in the correct vehicle (dosage form) must be used. This will make sure that the medication gains access to the invading germ and remains at the site long enough to have an effect.
After your medication has been selected, be sure to follow instructions. Cleanse the skin with soap and water and dry thoroughly before applying a non-prescription medication. Do not miss doses. The following information is important regarding different vehicles:
If using a cream or ointment, apply the smallest quantity to cover the area and rub in well.
If using an aerosol, shake the canister well. Hold the spray 15 to 25 cm from the site and spray evenly. The evaporating action has an anti-itch effect and also quickly leaves the drug in contact with the skin. Do not inhale the powder and spray and use away from an open flame.
Powders have a very valuable drying effect but do not deliver high concentrations of medication very efficiently.
Ointments do not cling well to wet, oozing areas and may further complicate the matter when the skin is broken.
Solutions will deliver the medication to the affected area but do not adhere very well.
Jock itch can be safely and effectively treated with non-prescription medicines. Relief occurs within several days but treatment should be continued for two to four weeks to effect a cure. Prolonged use on broken or damaged skin can lead to absorption and adverse side effects. The presence of bacteria will cause treatment to fail. A physician must be consulted if no relief is experienced within seven days.
If you want to know more about the differences between the many products available in the pharmacy to treat Jock Itch, ask your pharmacist, you have the right to know!
Ellen Campbell Grizzle is the President of the Caribbean Association of Pharmacists (CAP) and Director of the National Council on Drug Abuse (NCDA), Kingston, Jamaica.
