For example, ringworm on your face or body looks like 1⁄2 in (1. 3 cm) circles on your skin. These circles are typically red, raised, and scaly, with raised edges. Ringworm on your feet, or athlete’s foot, manifests as itchy, peeling, dry white skin between your toes. Jock itch involves slightly larger red patches localized in the groin area, and is typically accompanied by severe itching.
Visit your local pharmacy to purchase an OTC antifungal cream. Most large pharmacies have a specific “Antifungal” section. A few common OTC antifungal medications include Lamisil (which is safe for people over 12 years old), Desenex, and Lotrimin AF. Tinactin and Neosporin AF are good choices for treating children with fungal infections. Use these medications as directed on the packaging or by your doctor. Most varieties of OTC antifungal creams include drugs like miconazole, clotrimazole, and econazole.
Also schedule an appointment if you have a fungal infection on your scalp or a similarly hard-to-reach area.
If you have a vaginal yeast infection, the doctor will take a sampling of skin cells from your vaginal walls and cervix.
In many cases, your doctor will ask you to continue taking oral meds for up to 2 weeks after the rash has cleared up. If you have a vaginal yeast infection, the doctor may prescribe soft medicated pellets that you can insert into your vagina that will clear up the infection. [6] X Trustworthy Source National Health Service (UK) Public healthcare system of the UK Go to source
If you experience severe stomach pain after taking an oral antifungal medication, visit an Urgent Care or emergency room.
You can also use selenium sulfide shampoo to treat fungal rashes on other parts of your body, such as athlete’s foot. Apply the shampoo to the affected area in the shower and let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing it off. Your symptoms should resolve in about 4 weeks. If your symptoms get worse or don’t improve after a few weeks, follow up with your primary care doctor.
Fungi love damp skin, so if your skin is still wet when you put your clothes on, you’ll risk contracting an infection. Keep your feet clean and dry and avoid sharing socks or shoes with other people.
Avoid wearing tight-fitting clothes and any clothing items made from fabrics that don’t breathe. Leather is a great example of a fabric to avoid.
This is also an important step in preventing the infection from spreading to other people. Fungi travel relatively easily, and you’ll risk infecting friends, roommates, and family members if you don’t keep your towels, sheets, and clothing clean. You can also protect your feet by wearing flip-flops in shared bathroom or shower areas, such as the showers at the gym or the area around the swimming pool. [11] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Dermatology Professional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists Go to source
If you have a vaginal yeast infection, soak a tampon in warm coconut oil before inserting it. Coconut oil’s antifungal properties were proven in a study conducted by the U. S. National Library of Medicine.
Medical studies have shown that garlic contains natural antibiotic properties which will help fight fungal infections.
Apple cider vinegar is also full of healthy nutrients including phosphorus, potassium, and calcium. Its antifungal properties are largely anecdotal, however. You can purchase apple cider vinegar at any supermarket or grocery store. It may also be for sale at some large drugstores.
You can purchase yogurt at any supermarket or grocery store. Check the yogurt’s label and make sure that it contains live Lactobacillus strains before you purchase it. Similarly to the apple cider vinegar, yogurt’s antifungal abilities are largely anecdotal, and come from yogurt’s ability to improve your overall gut health.
