Can Jock Itch Spread?

One concern that many people with jock itch have is whether or not it can spread to other parts of the body. Jock itch is caused by a fungus belonging to a group of fungi called dermatophytes. These dermatophytes exist everywhere on the body. Generally they are harmless and only become a problem when the conditions are right. However, if you already have a skin infection caused by these dermatophytes in one area of the body, it is likely it will spread to other parts.

Most of the time, this is due to poor hygiene. Touching an affected area and then touching another part of your body without washing your hands is one of the most common ways the infection spreads. Jock itch may also spread by using the same object on different parts of the body. For example, you can spread the infection if you wash your groin area and other parts of your body with the same washcloth.

Causes of Jock Itch

Jock itch enjoys living in warm moist places on the body. Typically you will find it in the skin folds such as the area where the upper thigh and groin connect. There are a number of things that can cause jock itch to form on the groin including:

• Groin area left wet or moist for long periods of time
• Skin to skin contact with an infected person
• Intimate contact with the spores on an infected object
• Developing athlete’s foot or a ringworm infection in other parts of the body
• Friction caused by clothing that is too tight
• Not changing underwear often enough
• Diabetes
• Poor overall health
• Taking broad-spectrum antibiotics
• Wearing wet clothing, like bathing suits, for long periods of time
• Obesity
• Suppressed or weak immune function
• Poor hygiene
• Excessive sweating

Tips for Preventing Jock Itch from Spreading

There are several things you can do to prevent jock itch from spreading all over your body. The primary way is to treat the affected area as soon as possible. The longer you treat the area with an antifungal product, the less contagious it becomes because you are killing the fungus.

While there are several prescription drugs and over-the-counter medications you can use to treat jock itch, many of these products can cause side effects. For a natural remedy that will eliminate jock itch quickly and without the problems associated with using prescription medications, take a look at the top jock itch remedies we reviewed and recommend.

Practicing good hygiene is another way to prevent the spread of jock itch to other parts of the body. Always wash your hands after touching an affected area. This will also prevent you from passing the infection to other people.

Use a separate washcloth and towel when washing your genitals. Make sure to wash these items in hot water with an antifungal cleanser like bleach. This will kill any fungus that transfers to the towels and prevent transmission to other parts of your body. It is also a good idea to clean your environment on a regular basis using an antifungal agent for the same reason.