Overview
Jock itch is a fungal infection of the skin of the groin and inner thighs, extremely common in India's hot, humid weather, especially in men who sweat a lot. It causes an itchy, red, ring-like rash with a scaly border in the skin folds. It is the same family of fungus as ringworm and spreads with sweat, tight clothing and shared towels. It clears with antifungal creams and by keeping the area cool and dry, but often returns if sweat and moisture persist.
Symptoms
- An itchy red rash in the groin and inner thighs
- A raised, scaly border with a clearer centre
- Burning and itching that worsen with sweat
- Flaking or cracking of the skin
- Spread outward across the skin folds
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if it does not clear with antifungal cream, keeps returning, spreads widely, or has been treated with steroid creams.
Causes
Dermatophyte fungi that thrive in warm, moist skin folds, spread by sweat, tight or damp clothing, shared towels and existing foot fungus.