Jock itch can be a fungal infection from the fungus tinea cruris, or a yeast infection from the bacteria candida albicans. Both of these have the same symptoms, and fortunately both of them are very treatable.

Red patches which occur in the groin will spread if they are not treated. These are the telltale signs of jock itch. They also have a burning stinging sensation and can be very dry and flaky, or can be wetter looking (yeast infection). Candida albicans is the bacteria responsible for athletes foot, so if you have had that before then you will know that the rash for jock-itch can be similar to the rash for athletes foot.

The sooner jock itch is treated, the better it is, as in most skin problems. If not treated, the rash will spread down the thighs, up towards the anus, and across the buttocks. It can spread over the genital area in which case it can result in penile yeast infection.

Chemical, over the counter remedies are useful but natural remedies also are very effective. Always consider natural remedies, they are effective and they help stop the itch very quickly. While many oils are safe for the skin, such as tea tree oil, lavender oil and oil of oregano, they do need to be diluted to prevent burning.

Over the counter remedies can be found at most chemists, I recommend a clotrimazole cream used with a antifungal soap and anti-fungal talcum powder to keep the area dry. It is vital to continue the treatment for two weeks or at a minimum, for one week after the rash has disappeared.

While you are being treated you should avoid sexual intercourse, since this can spread the infection to your partner, and of course they can then pass it back to you. If there is a chance that your partner has caught jock-itch you should really both be treated for it at the same time.

It is vital that, after trying these remedies, if you still have the rash you must go to the doctor. He will be able to take a skin sample and check it for you, to make sure that you have jock itch. If it is ongoing then he may try some stronger medicine. You should also think about changes in your diet, because diets that have a large amount of carbohydrate and sugar will encourage yeast infections.