What causes jock itch? Who gets jock itch?
Jock itch is a basic problem with inflammation of the skin in the groin. This inflammation may be caused by simple mechanical irritation, infections like bacteria and yeasts, or other noninfectious skin conditions. Causes of jock itch include the following: • moisture, warmth, and skin friction in the groin folds; • tight, occlusive clothing and undergarments that trap in sweat; • contact with fungus and yeasts; and • contact with bacteria. Different skin infections may include • Candida albicans (yeast) • Trichophyton (fungus) • Epidermophyton floccosum (fungus) Overall, diet does not seem to affect jock itch. Jock itch is most common in adult and middle-aged men. Anyone can get jock itch, which is thought to affect nearly all people at some point in their lives. Certain groups of people may be more prone to jock itch. Patients with diabetes, obesity, and those with a compromised immune system like in HIV/AIDS, hepatitis, chronic illnesses, cancer, systemic chemotherapy, immunosuppres
