What is jock itch?
Jock itch (tinea cruris) is a fungal infection in the groin and inner thighs. The fungus loves warm, damp places, so it’s common in athletes, in hot weather, and in anyone who sweats a lot. It often comes along with athlete’s foot.
Listed in Ontario’s minor ailments program as: Tinea cruris (jock itch).
Common symptoms
- An itchy, red or darker rash in the groin and inner thighs
- A raised, scaly edge that spreads outward
- Burning or stinging
- Usually doesn’t affect the scrotum or penis (if it does, it may be something else)
How a Kennedy pharmacist can help
Your assessment is private. The pharmacist will ask about the rash and check it isn’t a yeast infection, eczema or something that needs a doctor.
They may prescribe an antifungal cream and go over the habits that keep it from coming back: dry off well after showering, wear loose cotton underwear, change out of sweaty clothes quickly, and treat athlete’s foot at the same time (put socks on before underwear so you don’t spread it).
If we think you’d be better served by a doctor, we’ll tell you, and help you figure out where to go.
Medicines a pharmacist may consider
- Terbinafine cream (Lamisil)antifungal cream, often works in 1 to 2 weeks
- Clotrimazole (Canesten) or miconazole (Micatin) creamantifungal creams used for 2 to 4 weeks
- Ketoconazole, ciclopirox (Loprox) or tolnaftate (Tinactin)other antifungal options
Your pharmacist chooses based on your symptoms, age, pregnancy, allergies and other medications, so not every option is right for everyone. Brand names are examples. We often use the generic version, which works the same and usually costs less.
What it costs
The assessment is free with a valid Ontario health card. It’s paid for by the province, just like a visit to your doctor.
If you’re prescribed something, the medicine is paid for like any other prescription: through your drug plan, the Ontario Drug Benefit (65+ and other eligible people), OHIP+ (under 25 without a private plan), or out of pocket.
Good to know: Some plans cover antifungal creams when a pharmacist prescribes them. We’ll check before you pay.
No Ontario health card? Text or call us first and we’ll tell you the fee before we start.
When to see a doctor instead
See your family doctor, a walk-in clinic or a nurse practitioner if:
- The rash isn’t better after 2 weeks of treatment
- There are blisters, pus, open sores or a fever
- The rash is on the penis, scrotum or vulva
- You have diabetes or a weakened immune system
- It keeps coming back
Not sure? Call Health811 (dial 811) any time to speak with a registered nurse, free.