Is Jock Itch Contagious?

We all know that our body hosts a variety of bacteria and fungi, of which some are beneficial to us while others tend to multiply and lead to infections. One such harmful fungus is Trichophyton rubrum that grows and multiplies in the groin area and causes an infection called jock itch.

The infection is a common itchy rash of the groin, which is also referred to as ringworm of the groin or itchy crotch. The fungus thrives in wet or moist areas, like genital, pubic, buttock, and anal regions. At times, it even spreads up to the inner thighs.

Symptoms of a Jock Itch

➜ The symptoms usually begin with mild intermittent itching or irritation in the groin and later causes chafing and burning sensation in the infected area. The area may develop a red or pink rash usually in the inside of the thigh area, where the fold of the groin area meets the leg.

➜ This rash may eventually turn dry, rough, and bumpy and develop pus bumps or start oozing. However, in extreme cases, excessive rubbing and scratching can also result in cellulitis and abscess formation.

➜ Moreover, skin rash developed due to a jock itch may lead to temporary skin discoloration, i.e., post-inflammatory hypopigmentation (lighter than the regular skin color) or hyperpigmentation (darker than the regular skin color).

Probable Causes

➜ Itchy crotch is commonly seen in people who are overweight or obese or are suffering from diabetes. People who regularly wear tight or abrasive underwear have a tendency of sweating, skin rubbing or friction, developing allergies and candida yeast infection, etc., are also prone to suffer from this skin condition.

➜ Although it is often considered as a man's disease, ringworm of the groin is also very common in women wherein the infection usually develops under the breasts. The good point is that this fungal infection is curable and can be treated using different medications and ointments. Antifungal creams for jock itch include Miconazole, Econazole, Ketoconazole, Lamisil, etc.

Jock Itch - Is it Contagious?

➜ Well, the answer to this question is yes. Itchy crotch is contagious and is easily transmitted from one person to another. However, shaking hands, hugging, etc., would not spread the infection but getting involved in any kind of sexual activity can lead to the transmission of the infection.

➜ Scratching or scalping the infected area can transfer the fungus to your hands and other parts of the body. Hence, make sure you wash your hands properly after touching the infected area. Also, using clothing, towels, shorts, underwear, swimwear, etc., of the infected person can transmit the fungal itch to a healthy, normal person.

➜ Moreover, public showers, pools, gyms, and locker rooms are also common sources of tinea fungus. Hence, after going to such places, take a shower in order to reduce the possibilities of developing an itchy crotch.

The best way to prevent the infection is to maintain a proper hygiene by cleaning the vulnerable areas gently and thoroughly and then drying it completely. Wear loose, cotton underwear, especially in summers when we tend to sweat more. Also, avoid using towels, clothing, etc., of other people. Use an antifungal cream on the infected area in order to treat the infection, and if there's no change, consult a doctor for a proper cure.

Disclaimer: This story is for informative purposes only and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.