Men's Health Issues

Basic Jock Itch Information

Jock itch is a fungal or yeast infection of the groin. Jock Itch can be transferred from person to person through common use items such as towels or wash clothes or the sharing of clothing.

Signs you have Jock Itch

Jock itch may appear as a red to brown rash or sometimes as a ring (ring worm). It some times may have tiny pustules (pimples) associated with it and it is usually “itchy”

Over-the-Counter Treatment for Jock Itch

In most cases jock itch can be treated with over the counter medications that contain Clotrimazole 1%, such as Lotrimin lotion/creme, Miconazole 2% Micatin, Tolnaftate 1% (Tinactin).

Treatment for Jock Itch

Follow the instructions on the over the counter medication you select to treat the infection or follow specific instructions as given by your health care provider. It is important to keep the area clean, wash with soap and water frequently and dry completely. Avoid tight fitting non-absorbant athletic equipment, attire or undergarments.

Is Jock Itch Contiguous?

If you have jock itch, your sex partner(s) should also have an exam. Jock Itch can be transmitted in skin to skin contact, you may need to avoid sexual contact during this time. The topical cremes and ointments used to treat Jock Itch are often oil based are not safe to use with condoms.

How to Avoid Jock Itch

• Never share towels or clothing.

• Be sure to change undergarments daily. Don't wear briefs, wear boxer shorts. Change underwear after tasks that leave you hot and sweaty. Avoid underwear made of nylon or other non absorbing materials.

• Make sure to wash athletic equipment, such as athletic supporters, gym clothing and socks between uses. Don’t store damp clothing in a locker or gym bag.

• Don’t wear tight clothing.

• Bathe or shower after a workout. Don’t use antibacterial soaps. Be sure to dry your groin thoroughly.

• Apply talc or other powder to the groin area to help keep it dry. If you're overweight and sweat a lot, use a drying powder with miconazole nitrate.

• Sleep in a nightshirt or nude.

Tolnaftate Medication Prescribed for Jock Itch

Tolnaftate stops the growth of fungi that cause skin infections, including athlete's foot, jock itch, and ringworm.

Tolnaftate comes as a cream, liquid, powder, gel, spray powder, and spray liquid for application to the skin. Tolnaftate usually is applied twice a day. Follow the directions on the package or on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Use tolnaftate exactly as directed. Do not use more or less of it or use it more often than directed by your doctor.

The burning and soreness of athlete's foot or the itching of jock itch should decrease within 2 to 3 days. Continue treatment for at least 2- weeks after symptoms disappear. A total of 4-6 weeks of treatment may be necessary.

Thoroughly clean the infected area, allow it to dry, and then gently rub the medication in until most of it disappears. Use just enough medication to cover the affected area. You should wash your hands after applying the medication.

Spray and powder forms should be applied between the toes; socks and shoes should be treated lightly. Sprays should be shaken well before each use to mix the medication and then sprayed from a distance of at least 6 inches.

Before using Tolnaftate

• tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to tolnaftate or any other drugs.
• tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, including vitamins.

What other information should I know?

Keep all appointments with your doctor. Tolnaftate is for external use only. Do not let tolnaftate get into your eyes, nose, or mouth, and do not swallow it. Do not apply dressings, bandages, cosmetics, lotions, or other skin medications to the area being treated unless your doctor tells you.

Do not let anyone else use your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription. If you still have symptoms of infection after you finish the tolnaftate, call your doctor.

It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies.