Suffering From Tinea Cruris Or Jock Itch (Groin Ringworm) In Summer? Know Its Treatment & Prevention

One of the most common fungal infections in India is jock itch (groin ringworm), which is also called ‘tinea cruris’ by medical professionals. It causes one or multiple red and itchy rashes on your skin. Jock itch mostly appears on the inner thighs and the groin area. 

In most cases, it is caused by moisture and sweat. People who sweat a lot, those who are overweight and athletes are the ones who are the most susceptible to developing the condition.

As per an estimate, approximately 20 to 25% of the total world population has the problem of jock itch. More than 10 lakh cases are reported in India alone every year. The red and itchy rashes can make some people uncomfortable but usually, it is not a cause for concern. To cure and treat jock itch, the groin area should be kept dry and clean at all times. 

You should shower regularly and tight-fitting clothes should be avoided as they don’t allow the skin to breathe. In addition to this, topical antifungal medications might need to be used on the affected skin for the prevention of the infection, provide relief and kill the fungus. If you are witnessing severe symptoms or if the jock itch doesn’t improve even after some weeks, it’s advisable to see a doctor or receive medical help as soon as possible.

What is a Groin Ringworm? 

Groin ringworm or jock itch is a common infection that’s caused by a fungus. It causes a burning, stinging, itchy rash on the skin around the butt crack, groin and inner thigh. It is also called Tinea cruris. Cruris means groin and Tinea is another name for ringworm. People who are overweight and sweat a lot are very likely to get it. 

With jock itch, bumps or blisters may develop on the skin and it can become cracked or scaly. Most often, young adult men and adolescents get jock itch. It’s uncommon in females. Women are 3 times less likely to get jock itch than men. 

Also Read: Types of Skin Problems & their Solutions

What are the Causes of Groin Ringworm?

Jock itch or groin ringworm is caused by a fungus. It is a type of ringworm. The fungi can easily survive for months on skin, soil and household objects and are quite contagious. It usually spreads from contact of a human with another infected person, animal, soil or object.

Moist and warm temperatures are ideal conditions for the growth of the fungus and wearing tight clothing near the groin area creates such a condition. 

You may also get jock itch if:

• Your groin area is moist from sweating 
• A wet bathing suit is worn for a long duration 
• Sweaty clothes or wet towels are shared with other people
• Proximity is maintained with someone who has a jock itch
• You are overweight
• You suffer from a weakened immune system or are diabetic

What are the Symptoms of Groin Ringworm? 

With groin ringworm, the affected skin itches and burns. The skin may change colours and appear irritated, flaky or scaly. The skin rash may also develop rings and develop blisters or bumps.

What is the Treatment of Groin Ringworm? 

If groin ringworm is left untreated, then it can last for months and might spread to other parts of the body. It can be cleared in a few weeks by using over-the-counter medicines called antifungals. These are available in the form of sprays, creams, powders, ointments and gels.

These products have terbinafine, tolnaftate,  clotrimazole or miconazole in them. A few prescription antifungal medications are also available in the form of pills. These contain terbinafine, fluconazole or itraconazole. It is very important to finish the full course of your medicines because if it is stopped in between, your jock itch may appear again and be harder to treat. 

Some Steps which can be Taken for Healing Faster are:

• Wash the affected skin and dry it using a clean towel
• For the rest of the body, a different towel should be used
• The medicine should be applied as per the directions on the medicine label
• Medicine should be applied as per the duration prescribed or else the jock itch may come back if it is stopped sooner

In the case of a mild jock itch, rubbing alcohol may cure it and stop or prevent fungal growth on the skin’s surface. There are certain home remedies which can be tried to treat or prevent jock itch by stopping or preventing the growth of bacteria, which include using peppermint, eucalyptus oils, bitter orange and tea tree.

Garlic can also be used as it contains a compound called ajoene. The growth of bacteria can be stopped or prevented by Ajoene. Garlic and essential oils may not be able to completely get rid of the fungal infection. 

At the CK Birla Hospital, we ensure patients get a prompt diagnosis and treatment by a reputed Dermatologist doctor. This patient-centric approach not only helps the patients heal better but also ensures they are aware of the preventive measures as well. In case you face any symptoms, do reach out to us, or book a direct appointment with Dr. Seema Oberoi Lall at the CK Birla Hospital.

FAQ’s

Is Ringworm in the Groin Contagious?

Groin ringworm is contagious as it has a fungus which grows on or in the skin. Moist and warm temperatures create an ideal condition for this fungus to grow, especially when you are wearing tight pants or underwear. Jock itch spreads from skin-to-skin contact or contact with an infected surface. You can also get a jock itch by sharing clothing or towels and sexual contact with an infected person. 

How Long does Groin Ringworm Last?

Groin ringworm normally doesn’t disappear on its own. If it is not treated, it can spread to other parts of the body. If you follow your healthcare provider’s instructions properly for treatment, then your jock itch should go away in one to eight weeks. Even if the symptoms go away, it is important to complete the full course of medicines as the jock itch can come back and be harder to treat.