Jock Itch

Jock itch (tinea cruris) is a rash caused by a fungal infection. It occurs in the skin folds between the thigh and groin where it's warm and moist.

It starts as a small, red, itchy spot. It can grow larger in the shape of a round ring, 1 to 2 inches wide. It may cause the skin to flake. It may also spread to the scrotum, the skin that covers your testicles. This infection is treated with skin creams or oral medicine.

These tips will help you care for yourself at home:

• If you were prescribed a cream, apply it exactly as directed. Some antifungal creams are available without a prescription.
• It may take a week before the fungus starts to go away and it can take about 2 to 3 weeks to completely clear. To prevent it from coming back, it's important to keep using the medicine until the rash is gone.
• Wash the groin area at least once a day with soap and water. Pat dry and apply the medicine. Wear freshly laundered cotton underwear daily.
• Once the rash is gone, keep the area clean and dry to keep the rash from coming back.
• If it keeps coming back, use a medicated antifungal powder daily in the groin area. Contact your doctor to see if further treatment is needed.

These tips may help prevent jock itch:

• Don't share clothes, towels, or sports gear with others unless the items have been washed.
• Change your underwear and socks daily.
• Keep skin clean and dry, especially after showering or swimming.
• If you are overweight, try to lose weight to prevent skin folds from rubbing against each other.
• Don't wear tight or non-cotton underwear.
• Treat athlete's foot if it occurs.

Follow up with your doctor or as advised if the rash doesn't start to get better after 10 days of treatment. Also call if the rash continues to spread.

Contact your doctor right away if any of these occur:

• Fluid drains from the rash
• Fever of 100.4ºF (38ºC) or higher, or as advised by your doctor
• Redness around the rash increases
• Rash doesn't go away with treatment
• Rash returns soon after treatment