Jock itch, or tinea cruris, is a fungal rash that causes itching and discomfort in the groin and anus area. It is contagious and more common in men, but can occur in women. Treatment includes antifungal creams and keeping the area dry. Precautions should be taken to avoid transmission and recurrence.
Jock itch is an uncomfortable subject and an equally uncomfortable condition. Known in the medical field as tinea cruris, it is a persistent reddish, flaky and itchy rash in the groin and around the anus caused by a fungal imbalance on the skin. It is more common in men, although it can certainly occur in women and is more likely to occur in wet weather or among very active people. The condition is contagious and a person suffering from it should not share towels or clothes with others.
All people have some amount of fungus on their bodies and under certain conditions, it can start to spread. The warm, moist groin area is often ideal for its growth. The most common fungus that causes itching is Trichophytum rubrum. The condition may first be noticed when areas in the groin creases appear red or irritated, and the redness continues to progress and becomes bothersome over the next few days.
People who have never had itchiness before should see a doctor for a diagnosis, as the rash could be caused by something else. Intertrigo, essentially male yeast infection, may require different treatment. A condition called erythrasma is a bacterial infection that mimics symptoms, and treating it with an antifungal cream will only make the problem worse. Instead, erythrasma requires treatment with oral or topical antibiotics.
Once the condition has been verified, a patient can treat it with one of several over-the-counter antifungal creams. Steroid creams shouldn’t be used to relieve itching, however, as they can make the condition worse. Patients should under no circumstances apply steroids to the groin area unless prescribed by a doctor. Antifungal creams should be used for up to a week after the rash has cleared, and most cases of itching resolve about two weeks after starting treatment. If the cream doesn’t work, stronger prescription antifungals can be used.
It is important for patients to keep the groin area dry during treatment. People with this condition should change their underwear at least once a day and may find that it’s best not to wear underwear at night. After each activity, patients should gently pat the groin area with a towel. They may also want to make sure the entire affected area is completely dry after using the bathroom, especially if hot weather causes excessive sweating.
People with sports itch should refrain from sexual activity, as it can be passed on to other people. They should avoid sharing towels as well, as this is another means of transmission. Once the condition has resolved, patients may still want to observe precautions such as drying the groin area after activities, not sharing towels or clothes with others, and choosing underwear styles that are loose fitting and made from breathable fabric to reduce the chances of develop the problem again.
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