Adele got a fungal infection she "never knew existed" from sweating in her underwear

Adele's fans will know she is no stranger to honesty – but some fans got more than they bargained for when the singer let them know about a fungal infection she's recently developed.

Speaking to the crowd at her Las Vegas residency, Adele opened up about the pitfalls of performing every night. "I sweat a lot, and it doesn't go anywhere," she said, explaining that the tight, shapewear she wears during her show prevents the sweat from escaping.

"So I basically am just sitting in my own sweat," Adele continued, revealing that "my doctor [diagnosed] me [with] jock itch."

adele got a fungal infection from sweating in her underwear
Kevork Djansezian - Getty Images

"I never knew it existed," the singer said of the fungal infection, prompting many fans – and viewers on social media – to head to Google with the same question.

What is jock itch?

According to the NHS, jock itch is essentially ringworm that is affecting the groin. "Ringworm is a common fungal infection," the NHS website explains, noting that "it's not caused by worms."

Ringworm can appear anywhere on the body, including the scalp (where it is known as tinea capitis) and the groin – where it is known as jock itch.

"The main symptom of ringworm is a rash," the NHS points out. " It may look red, silver or darker than surrounding skin, depending on your skin tone." As well as this, the rash "may be scaly, dry, swollen or itchy."

adele got a fungal infection from sweating in her underwear
Marko Geber - Getty Images

How is jock itch treated?

If you think you might have jock itch, the NHS advises speaking to a pharmacist first. "They can look at the rash and recommend the best antifungal medicine. This might be a cream, gel or spray depending on where the rash is," the NHS website notes. "You may need to use an antifungal medicine every day for up to four weeks."

"It's important to use [the medication] for the right amount of time, even if the rash has gone away," the NHS website adds, explaining that "a pharmacist will tell you if they think you should see a GP."

As for how Adele is dealing with her jock itch, she told fans she's been prescribed medication by a doctor. "I have to squirt it on myself," she said. "I don't know why the fuck I just told you that!"

This article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice or diagnosis. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.


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