This is highly possible since the cause of jock itch is a fungal infection. Jock itch is caused by a fungus that is also related to another fungal condition called Athlete’s foot. The treatment for Jock itch is an application of topical creams that have antifungal properties and keeping the area dry as well as a daily change of clothes and objects that come in contact with the area. Though one cannot term Jock itch as a sexually transmitted disease, infected skin touching an uninfected skin would transmit the disease.
The symptoms of Jock itch begin with itching and irritation of the groin area that spreads to the inner thigh and anal region. The skin on the affected area would go redder and the skin could also start cracking, flaking and peeling off. Eventually, the symptoms could worsen to the development of a rash in the inner thigh, genital area that sometimes the anal region. Rashes can then get worse and become pustules and blisters. Depending on the exact species of fungus that infects the area, the rash could be wetter with skin secretions and pus. Sometimes, the penis can also get affected but this is not a given. This also gives rise to fears that sex with an infected male could also trigger a vaginal yeast infection. The fungus, like all fungi, requires a warm and humid environment for the spores to germinate and affect the host. This is also where the etymology of the name of the disease comes from, as jockstraps are particularly capable of creating an environment just like this.
Treating this disease involves the use of antifungal topical creams that contain the active ingredients metronidazole or clotrimazole. If the rash is too severe and irritating, then it is a sign that the area is inflamed. This is the body’s natural response to an infection; however, it can be very painful and uncomfortable. It is for this reason that topical hydrocortisone is sometimes used as an anti-inflammation ointment. Unfortunately, this also suppresses the immune system in the area and should not be used without an anti-fungal continuing the attack on the infection. Curiously, most anti-dandruff shampoos also contain antifungal agents because a leading cause of the condition is fungus. These shampoos can also be used on the region successfully. Look for shampoos that contain the active ingredient Zinc pyrithione or selenium sulphide, as these will be anti-dandruff shampoos.