How to Know if You Have Jock Itch

Identifying Jock Itch

Recognize the symptoms. Jock itch is a red rash that covers the inside of your upper thigh, going as far back as your buttocks and your anus. The rash will likely itch and burn. If it spreads to your anus, you may also have anal itching. It may look flaky with a raised, swollen appearance. Blisters, bleeding, and pus-filled sores are common. The edges of the patches are often very red or silvery, while the skin in the center may not be discolored. This may give it the classic “ringworm” appearance. However, it is not a worm. The rings get larger as the fungus spreads. The scrotum or penis may remain fungus-free.

Treat jock itch with an over-the-counter antifungal medication. Apply the medication as indicated in the manufacturer’s instructions. Over-the-counter options include ointments, lotions, creams, powders, or sprays. Effective medications may contain miconazole, clotrimazole, terbinafine, or tolnaftate. It may take several weeks before it is fully cleared up.

Go to a doctor if self-care doesn’t work. If the infection lasts longer than 2 weeks, is very bad, or keeps coming back, you may need something stronger. Your doctor can give you prescription strength antifungal medications, which may be either topical or oral. If you have a bacterial infection from scratching, your doctor will also give you an antibiotic.

Preventing Jock Itch

Keep your groin clean and dry. If you are an athlete, shower immediately after exercising so that you don’t give the fungus time to grow. The fungus thrives in moist, dark areas. After showering, dry yourself thoroughly. Use powder to help your skin stay dry for longer.

Wear loose clothing. Avoid tight underwear, which will trap moisture between your legs. If you are a man, wear boxers rather than briefs. Change your underwear immediately if you sweat.

Don’t use other people’s towels in the locker room or share their clothes. The fungus can be spread by skin-to-skin contact, but it can also spread through cloth.

Treat athlete’s foot aggressively. Athlete's foot infections can also spread to the groin and become jock itch. Don’t share footwear or go barefoot in public bathing areas.

Stay vigilant if you have risk factors that may make you particularly vulnerable. People with these conditions may be more likely to have a reoccurrence. These include: Obesity A suppressed immune system Atopic dermatitis Diabetes