Jock itch, also known as tinea cruris, is a fungal infection that affects the groin area. It is a common condition, particularly among men and athletes, and is caused by the same type of fungus that causes athlete's foot.

Symptoms of jock itch may include:

1. Red, itchy, or scaly rash in the groin area
2. Burning or stinging sensation
3. Flaking, peeling, or cracking skin
4. Blisters or ulcers

Here are some tips for preventing and treating jock itch:

1. Keep the groin area clean and dry: Use a mild soap and warm water to clean the area and dry it thoroughly afterwards.
2. Wear loose-fitting clothing: Avoid tight-fitting clothing that can trap moisture and heat in the groin area.
3. Use antifungal creams: Over-the-counter antifungal creams such as clotrimazole, miconazole, or terbinafine can be used to treat jock itch. Apply the cream to the affected area twice a day for several weeks.
4. Keep the affected area covered: Use a clean towel or cloth to cover the affected area to prevent spreading the infection.
5. Avoid sharing personal items: Do not share towels, clothing, or other personal items with others.

In some cases, jock itch may require prescription medication or treatment. Consult with a healthcare professional if symptoms persist or worsen despite treatment.

The organisms that cause jock itch thrive in damp, close environments. Jock itch is caused by a fungus that spreads from person to person or from sharing contaminated towels or clothing. It's often caused by the same fungus that causes athlete's foot. The infection often spreads from the feet to the groin because the fungus can travel on your hands or on a towel.

Reduce your risk of jock itch by taking these steps:

• Stay dry. Keep your groin area dry. Dry your genital area and inner thighs thoroughly with a clean towel after showering or exercising. Dry your feet last to avoid spreading athlete's foot fungus to the groin area.
• Wear clean clothes. Change your underwear at least once a day or more often if you sweat a lot. It helps to wear underwear made of cotton or other fabric that breathes and keeps the skin drier. Wash workout clothes after each use.
• Find the correct fit. Make sure your clothes fit correctly, especially underwear, athletic supporters and sports uniforms. Avoid tight-fitting clothes, which can rub and chafe your skin and put you at increased risk of jock itch. Try wearing boxer shorts rather than briefs.
• Don't share personal items. Don't let others use your clothing, towels or other personal items. Don't borrow such items from others.
• Treat or prevent athlete's foot. Control any athlete's foot infection to prevent its spread to the groin. If you spend time in moist public areas, such as a gym shower, wearing sandals will help prevent athlete's foot.

For mild jock itch, your doctor may suggest first using an over-the-counter antifungal ointment, lotion, powder or spray. Apply the medication as your doctor recommends for one to two weeks even if the rash clears up quickly.

If you also have athlete's foot, it's usually treated at the same time as jock itch to reduce the risk of the rash coming back. Severe jock itch or a rash that doesn't improve with over-the-counter medicine may need prescription-strength creams, ointments or pills.