Dear Jeni-

I am writing you to ask if you have any home remedies for jock itch.  I am not sure if that is what I have - but I
have redness, itchiness and dry flaky skin from itching so much.  I appreciate whatever information you can
provide.  Thank you so much- Southern Irritation

Dear Southern Irritation-

I am sorry to hear of your problem.  As you know, I am not a Doctor.  I am merely going to provide you information
gained from my personal knowledge and research.

General Jock Itch Information:
Jock itch is a fungal infection of the skin in the groin, inner thighs and buttocks. Jock itch occurs most frequently in
hot, moist conditions and is usually seen in men (especially in men who perspire heavily), but it can occur in
women.
Possible Causes of Jock Itch:
Jock itch is caused by a fungal infection that results from wearing wet, soiled clothing (especially underwear or
athletic supporters); sharing wet, dirty towels; and showering infrequently (especially after exercising). Other risk
factors include using public showers and locker rooms; obesity; wearing tight clothing; and immune system
disorders.
Jock Itch Symptoms:
Jock itch causes a red, itchy rash and chafing in the groin, upper inner thighs and buttocks. The rash can be red,
brown or tan and has well defined edges. It can also appear scaly.

Joel and Terry Graedon on ThePeoplesPharmacy.com recommend Listerine. The herbal oils in the original
formula Listerine include eucalyptol, menthol and thymol. There is some evidence that these herbal extracts in
combination may have anti-fungal activity. That may be why readers have reported that rinsing the scalp with
Listerine can knock out resistant dandruff, which is also fungal in origin.  

HerbalRemedies.com recommends:
Garlic neutralizes most fungi.
B Complex Vitamins are good for overall health.
Colloidal Silver has antifungal properties.
Olive Oil, Flaxseed, Oregano Oil are effective when taken internally.
Tea Tree Oil, Calendula and Aloe Vera can be applied topically for relief.
REFERENCES: Prescription for Nutritional Healing, 3rd Edition, Phyllis Balch, CNC; James F. Balch, M.D.

MotherNature.com recommends the following:

Hit the shower. Wash the infected area thoroughly with an antibacterial soap such as Dial, Safeguard or Lever
2000 and then rinse well, suggests Dr. Ramsey.
Blow away jack itch. If you've got the itch, you need to keep the crotch area as dry as possible. Use a hair dryer
after showering, recommends Dr. Ramsey. "Just make sure its on the coolest setting. Otherwise, the heat could
make you perspire--and that defeats the purpose of drying the area."
Grab a towel. If you don't have access to a hair dryer, towel-drying is just fine--if you do a thorough job. Be sure
to dry your groin area very well, suggests Dr. Ramsey.
Get creamed. After you've dried yourself completely, use an over-the counter cream containing the ingredients
miconazole and clotrimazole (found in Lotrimin and Micatin). If you use the cream daily, following directions on the
tube, you can knock out a mild case in about two to four weeks, according to Dr. Ramsey. More serious infections,
however, will require a prescription.

I have also read through other sources that Rubbing Alcohol and Peroxide can provide relief as well.  You also
might want to try Aquaphor.  Aquaphor is great in relieving itch, redness and irritation.  I have personally found it
to help with diaper rash and pimples so it might help your problem as well.  Please keep in mind, I have also found
in my research that it can take 6-8 weeks to cure and it is spread through sexual intercourse.  You also might
want to try an oatmeal bath.  Aveeno oatmeal bath can provide relief for dry irritated skin.

I hope these sites and this information will provide some assistance with your problem.  If it persists and home
remedies are not solving your problem, I strongly recommend that you seek immediate medical attention.  Letting
any type of infection or problem persist can lead to a more serious medical problem.
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Dear Jeni-

I love the column!  I was wondering if you could help me out.  My wife has started a new job...a
second job, not by choice but due to our wonderful economy, and things have changed between us.  
I really feel there is a great distance growing between us and I was wondering if you had a
suggestion or two on how to get back on track.  Thanks so much-  JP

Dear JP-

I am sorry to hear of your troubles.  I know the economy is putting unwanted stress on just about everyone!  I can
think of a few things for you to try.  Taking on a second job can be very stressful on a person and adding to it
financial burdens can be very distracting in a relationship.  I think doing something that makes your wife feel special
will help both of you.  Take a few moments to drop love letters.  Create a "Pleasure Cupon Book" for the two of you
to share.  Leave love messages on the voicemail.  Make quiet time to cuddle, laugh and unwind together.  Having
multiple jobs I know can create a minimum time frame, but times like this are when individuals in a relationship need
to step up and make the time for each other.  Learn from the stressful times and allow them to create a stronger
bond between you two and not become a divider.  Most importantly, listen to each other and be there for each other!
Dear Jeni-

I heard about your column on Gretawire Blog and I had a question.   I have found myself to be
really outgoing on the computer.  I have a group of people that I always chat with and my self
esteem is huge on line.  I cannot say the same for everyday life outside of the computer.  I find it
difficult to talk to women and at times I feel like I am living a double life.  I would really like to be
as outgoing in the real world as I am online.  What can you suggest?  Thank you-Shy in Reality


Dear Shy in Reality-

I know the computer has allowed many people to come out of their shell and communicate in ways they never
believed to be possible.  I have always been one to believe that an individual should stand proud and be proud of
who they are inside and out.  With that in mind, look in the mirror and tell yourself how proud you are of yourself and
that you are an amazing individual.  When you go out today, make your move and take that first step.  When you see
someone you would like to make contact with, do it!  Say hello, ask how their day is.  Start small with simple hello's
and then when the time is right move on to small talk.  This is an election year and there is so much going on in the
economy...these two topics alone can provide for tons of small talk or conversations.  For a mind set, place yourself
in relaxation and don't think about what people are going to think of you, think about how you just made that persons
day by talking to them!
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Welcome to my Dear Jeni Column!
I created "Dear Jeni" because I have always been asked for my advice and/or my opinion and I thought
ParentsConnections.com was an excellent way to reach out to everyone and offer assistance with problems
and questions in any way I could.   Please keep in mind when you are seeking advice or information,
I am not a Doctor or Licensed Therapist.  
I am a 33 year old mother of 4 who is eager to lend an ear and share a few suggestions.
I look forward to reading and responding to your letters!