Jock itch: when to get help

1. 1

   Is any of this happening now?

   Call 911

   Emergency care is rarely needed.

   Go to an emergency department if rapidly spreading, painful skin changes occur with severe illness, confusion, faintness, or difficulty staying awake.

   Other emergency signs, for anyone

   • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
   • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
   • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
   • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
   • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
   • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
   • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
   • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these
2. 2

   Is any of this happening?

   Be seen today

   Seek urgent same-day care if the area becomes increasingly hot, swollen, tender, or starts draining pus.

   Fever, red streaks, or rapidly spreading redness can suggest a bacterial infection rather than uncomplicated jock itch.

   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these
3. 3

   Does any of this apply?

   Book an appointment

   Arrange routine medical care if:

   • You are unsure whether the rash is jock itch
   • The rash is extensive, painful, blistered, or keeps returning
   • Treatment used as directed is not helping
   • The rash involves the scrotum or has an unusual appearance
   • You have diabetes, poor circulation, or a weakened immune system
   • You may be pregnant and need advice about treatment choices
   • You think a medicine has irritated your skin
   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Jock itch. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.