Jock itch is an uncomfortable subject and an equally uncomfortable condition. Known by the medical field as tinea cruris, jock itch 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 most common in men, though it can certainly occur in women, and is most likely to occur in humid weather, or among people who are very active. Jock itch is ontagious, and a person suffering from the condition should not share towels or clothing with others.

We all have a certain amount of fungus on our bodies, and under certain conditions, fungus can begin to spread. The warm and humid “jock areas” are often ideal for the spread of fungus. Usually in jock itch this fungus is called trichophytum rubrum. The condition may first be noticed when areas in the folds of the groin look red or irritated and the redness continues to advance and becomes uncomfortable over the next few days.

If this is the first time you’ve had jock itch, it’s important to rule out a few other conditions and a good idea to see the doctor. Intertrigo, essentially the male yeast infection, may require different treatment than jock itch. A condition called erythrasma is a bacterial infection that mimics jock itch symptoms. Treating erythrasma with antifungal cream is a big problem, since fungi helps fight erythrasma. Instead erythrasma requires treatment with oral or topical antibiotics.

When suffering from jock itch, you can purchase several over the counter anti-fungal creams, but should never purchase steroidal creams to relieve itching. Steroids should not be applied to the groin area without doctor prescription and they may actually worsen jock itch. Anti-fungal creams should continue to be applied until a week after the rash has disappeared. If the cream is not working, stronger prescription antifungals can be tried. Most cases of jock itch resolve about two weeks after treatment begins.

It’s important during treatment to keep the groin area dry. You should change your underwear at least once a day, and it may be better not to wear underwear at night. After any activity, gently pat dry the groin area with a towel. You can pat dry the affected area when you use the bathroom, which may be particularly helpful if warm weather is causing extra sweating.

You should abstain from sexual activity during any case of jock itch, since it can be passed to partners. Avoid sharing towels too, as this is another means of transmission. Once the condition has cleared, you may still want to observe precautions like toweling the groin area after activities, not sharing towels or clothes with others, and choosing underwear styles that are loose fitting and made of breathable fabric.