Jock itch occurs when fungus grows and accumulates in the groin area. According to Medline Plus, the fungus responsible for jock itch grows in moist and wet areas and jock itch may be triggered by excessive sweating. Symptoms of jock itch may include itching in the groin, anus or skin folds around the thighs and scaly patches in the affected area. Fortunately, there are treatments that can get rid of jock rash itch, according to MayoClinic.com.
Step 1
Apply over-the-counter topical medications, recommends MayoClinic.com. Terbinafine, Naftifine, Miconazole and Clotrimazone are common medications used to treat jock itch and can be found at your local pharmacy. Use the medications as directed. If you don't notice improvements, contact your doctor to discuss other treatment options.
Step 2
Visit your doctor. Your doctor will take scrapings from the affected area to evaluate the fungus. If the test is positive, your doctor will recommend prescription options to assist in getting rid of the fungus that causes jock itch, according to MayoClinic.com.
Step 3
Use prescription topical medications. Some cases of jock itch don't respond to over-the-counter methods. For these cases, you should request Econazole or Oxiconazole from your physician. Apply medication to the affected area as directed by your doctor.
Step 4
Request oral medications. Jock itch that doesn't respond to over-the-counter or prescription topical agents should be treated with oral medications. Itraconazole, Fluconazole and Terbinafine are commonly prescribed for jock itch, according to MayoClinic.com.
Step 5
Discuss medication side effects with your physician. Oral medications may have side effects, such as gastrointestinal upset and abnormal liver function, according to MayoClinic.com. Oral medications used to treat jock itch may also interact with medications used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease. Talk about potential side effects before deciding on a treatment.
Tips and Warnings
- Some people get jock itch and athlete's foot at the same time. The conditions are caused by the same type of fungus. It's important to treat both infections to ensure the problem doesn't reoccur. You can also minimize the risk of future infections by staying dry in the groin area, recommends MayoClinic.com. Dry yourself thoroughly after showering and use a powder in the groin area to prevent moisture accumulation.
- If you have diabetes, AIDS or other diseases that affect the immune system, getting rid of jock itch may be difficult. Discuss your medical history with your physician to ensure you choose the right treatment option for your situation.
