Jock Itch STD

What is jock itch?

Jock itch (tinea cruris) is a fungal infection that results from staying in sweat-soaked clothing too long. Fungus thrives in damp, warm locations with little light– and the groin often has all of these conditions. Technically, jock itch is a ringworm infection found in the groin and on the thighs, as opposed to tinea corporis, which is the ringworm infection that it typically found elsewhere on the body. Ringworm is not a worm at all, as stated above, it is a fungal infection.

Who gets jock itch?

Jock itch occurs most often in athletes, but can affect anyone. Individuals who are the most at-risk for getting jock itch are those who wear tight, sweaty clothing that doesn’t allow for moisture to dry out, as well as obese individuals who are prone to getting jock itch when their sweat is unable to evaporate from skinfolds.

Tinea cruris (jock itch) symptoms

Symptoms of jock itch include:

• Redness or a reddish-brown rash
• Itching
• Peeling or flaking the skin
• Altered skin color
• Burning sensation

Activity typically worsens jock itch. Symptoms can affect the groin, thighs, and lower abdomen, but usually the testicles are unaffected.

Is jock itch contagious sexually?

Often men are curious to find out whether or not they can spread jock itch to their partner or to women. The answer is, sometimes jock itch is contagious. Jock itch is mildly contagious and can be transferred via direct skin-to-skin contact (like during sex) or if someone wears the unclean clothing of an individual who has jock itch. Jock itch will not be spread to your wife or teammates via contact like high fives and such– the area infected with the fungus has to come into contact with an area with similar moist, dark conditions and it has to stay moist and dark there long enough for it to thrive.

Jock itch vs herpes?

It can be shocking to have an itching groin, especially when the itch is coming from a red rash that may or may not have peeling and the appearance of blistering on the edges of the rash. For these reasons, men with jock itch often confuse their condition for genital herpes. Jock itch tends to be more of a rash that may of may not have tiny blisters surrounding parts of its edges, whereas genital herpes blisters are typically fluid- filled and unaccompanied by a rash. Herpes blisters crust over after bursting and become painful sores, unlike jock itch. A doctor will be able to examine the infection and tell you whether or not it is jock itch vs herpes.

Jock itch blisters

Jock itch blisters are a rash caused by jock itch that is typically a red, itchy, scaly patch with sharply-defined edges. The skin may also be sore or burning. In some cases, blisters may develop as a symptom of jock itch. These jock itch blisters are typically small, fluid-filled eruptions that can be red, white, or clear in color. They may be itchy or painful and can appear on or around the rash.

It’s important to note that blisters are not always a symptom of jock itch, and the presence of blisters does not necessarily indicate a more severe case of the infection. However, if you have blisters in addition to the typical symptoms of jock itch, you should see a healthcare provider to confirm the diagnosis and get treatment.

Jock itch blister are caused by a type of fungus known as dermatophytes, which thrives in warm, moist environments such as those found in the groin and inner thigh region. It can be spread through direct skin-to-skin contact, sharing personal items such as towels or clothing, or by coming into contact with surfaces or materials that have been contaminated with the fungus. Jock itch blisters are common but are not serious and can be easily treated.

How is jock itch treated?

Jock itch std is curable with over-the-counter antifungal medications like lotions, powders and creams. It often takes 2-4 weeks to fully get rid of the fungus. Be sure to thoroughly sanitize any athletic clothing including cups, jock straps and towels. For cases that prove difficult to be rid of with over-the-counter methods, doctors may prescribe antifungal medication in the form of tablets.

Medically Reviewed by J. Frank Martin JR., MD on September 11, 2022