Why your groin itches so much and how to get fast relief

• Jock itch is a fungal infection that causes red, scaly, itchy patches of skin in the groin area.
• If you're not careful, you can spread the fungus to other parts of your body.
• First, try eliminating jock itch with an over-the-counter antifungal cream.

Jock itch is a fungal infection in the groin area that causes an intensely itchy, sometimes painful rash. Known medically as tinea cruris, jock itch is caused by the same fungus that leads to ringworm and Athlete's foot.

"Jock itch usually isn't serious, but it is unappealing and uncomfortable," says Judson M. Brandeis, MD, a urologist and men's health expert with Brandeis MD.

Here's why you shouldn't be embarrassed by this common condition, but should get treatment soon.

Symptoms of jock itch

Jock itch, aka tinea cruris, involves red raised patches that are scaly to the touch. These patches may ooze pus, and they're often intensely itchy to the point of being painful.

Moreover, the skin around the patches may become very light or darkened, a change that can sometimes be permanent.

"The rash can be very itchy, intensely red, and can spread from the creases of the legs, to the thigh and buttocks areas," says Susan Massick, MD, a dermatologist at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. Generally, the rash does not spread to the penis or scrotum.

You can contract jock itch by coming into contact with a type of fungi called dermatophytes. These fungi can be spread through person-to-person contact, or by contact with materials like clothes or the floor, says Brandeis.

The fungus thrives in moist, warm environments, making your groin area an ideal home. The rash gets its name because it's associated with athletes who sweat often and are exposed to group settings like locker rooms.

Quick tip: Jock itch can be confused with other conditions, including psoriasis, chafing, or intertrigo, a condition caused by skin folds rubbing together, says Massick. If your jock itch doesn't respond to over-the-counter treatments within two weeks, it's best to see a doctor to confirm the diagnosis, she says.

The fastest way to cure jock itch

Rule number one: Don't scratch it! Scratching the rash can lead to infection and spread the fungus even more.

Jock itch won't go away on its own, but using over-the-counter antifungal creams can clear up the rash within a week, says Brandeis. When purchasing an over-the-counter antifungal cream, look for one that contains one of these ingredients:

• Miconazole
• Clotrimazole
• Terbinafine
• Tolnaftate

"Spread antifungal cream over and around the entire edge of the rash to make sure you eliminate the entire fungal infection," Brandeis says.

The package will tell you how often to apply the cream, but usually it's done twice a day. To ensure you completely eliminate the fungus, use antifungal cream for the recommended time, even if symptoms go away sooner.

Once you use the antifungal cream, itching should become less intense, but if it's still bothering you, use medicated powder, such as Gold Bond or apply a cold compress, taking care to dry the area thoroughly before and after.

If your symptoms last for longer than two weeks after applying the cream, or if you experience recurrent infections or fever, you should speak to a doctor. Dermatologists can prescribe stronger topical antifungal creams or oral antifungal medications.

Moreover, if you develop an infection from scratching, you may need antibiotics.

How to prevent jock itch in the future

Keeping your groin as dry as possible and practicing good hygiene can prevent future outbreaks of jock itch, says Massick. To prevent jock itch, follow these steps:

• Dry your groin thoroughly after showering, paying attention to skin folds.
• Use powder to absorb moisture in the groin area.
• Use wicking underwear and change them frequently.Wash cups and athletic protectors often, and never share them.
• Use clean towels daily and don't share them.
• Wear flip-flops or slippers in locker rooms or public areas to avoid picking up fungus.

If you experience any other fungal infections, like Athlete's foot, you should take steps to avoid the fungus coming into contact with your groin area. This can happen through something as simple as pulling up your pants.

Put on your socks before your underwear and pants if you have Athlete's foot to minimize the risk of spreading the infection, says Brandeis. Always treat fungal infections in other areas of the body — especially the feet or nails — promptly.

Insider's takeaway

Jock itch can be uncomfortable, but it's a highly treatable condition. With over-the-counter antifungal medication your symptoms will begin resolving immediately, and will likely be gone within two weeks.

Keeping your groin dry and not sharing towels, clothing, or equipment can minimize your risk for jock itch. If it does occur, start an over-the-counter treatment immediately and see a doctor if your symptoms don't improve or if you develop a fever.

"This is a common condition and nothing to be embarrassed about, but it can get much worse, painful, and more difficult to treat if you delay treatment," says Massick.