Jock Itch

Jock Itch is a fungal infection of the skin on the groin, upper inner thighs, or buttocks. It most commonly occurs in hot, humid weather or conditions.

Causes

Jock Itch is caused by common fungus organisms that grow best in warm, moist areas. Jock Itch can affect women, but most commonly affects men, especially men who perspire heavily.
The fungus that causes Jock Itch most often results from:
  • Wearing wet, damp, or unlaundered clothing (such as underwear or an athletic supporter)
  • Sharing towels that are infected with jock itch fungus
  • Infrequent showering, especially after exercising or perspiring heavily from work

Risk Factors

A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition.
  • Hot, humid weather or conditions
  • Heavy perspiration
  • Obesity
  • Tight clothing
  • Re-wearing clothing, especially underwear or athletic supporters, before laundering
  • Changing underwear infrequently
  • Infrequent showering
  • Sharing towels or clothing with other people
  • Using public showers or locker rooms
  • Immune system disorders

Symptoms

Jock Itch causes a chafed, itchy, sometimes painful rash in the groin, upper inner thigh or buttock. The rash is:
  • Usually red, tan, or brown
  • Usually defined clearly at the edges
  • Often slightly scaly

Diagnosis

Jock Itch can usually be diagnosed based on the appearance and location of the rash. However, other skin problems may look similar to jock itch. If you are not certain of the diagnosis, contact your doctor. The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam. In some cases, your doctor may order a laboratory test of the infected skin area. Testing usually consists of a skin scraping that can be viewed under a microscope or cultured.

Treatment

Over-the-counter antifungal creams can usually treat Jock Itch. Creams or lotions work better on Jock Itch than sprays. In severe or persistent cases, your doctor may prescribe stronger creams or oral medication. Use your prescription for the entire time that your doctor recommends. This will help prevent re-occurrence of the rash. If your rash does not resolve within a month of treatment, contact your doctor.
Creams
Antifungal creams for Jock Itch include:
  • Miconazole
  • Clotrimazole
  • Econazole
  • Oxiconazole
  • Ketoconazole
  • Terbinafine
  • Tolnaftate
  • Ciclopirox
  • Haloprogin
  • Naftifine
  • Undecyclenic
Do not use antifungal creams recommended specifically for athlete's foot. They may be too harsh for the groin. In some cases, over-the-counter antifungal creams may not work or effectively treat the rash. In these cases, your doctor can prescribe a stronger antifungal cream
Oral Medications
If your Jock Itch rash begins to ooze, call your doctor. This may be an indication that the rash may be secondarily infected with bacteria. If your doctor confirms that it is, you may receive an antibiotic.

Prevention

To help prevent Jock Itch and recurrences of jock itch:
  • Shower regularly.
  • Always shower soon after exercising or perspiring heavily.
  • After showering, dry the groin area thoroughly.
  • Apply absorbent powder after showering to help keep the groin area dry.
  • Wear loose fitting clothing.
  • Wear cotton underwear and breathable clothing.
  • Avoid wearing clothing that chafes your groin.
  • Always launder clothing, such as underwear and athletic supporters, before re-wearing.
  • Do not share towels or clothing with others.
  • Do not wear wet swimsuits for a long period of time.
  • Do not store damp clothing in your locker or gym bag.