Fungal Infections on the Groin

Fungus causes infection in the groin area and an anti-fungal cream works best to cure these types of infection. The scientific name given to the fungal infection on the groin area is known as Tinea cruris. Usually, fungus is present on the skin and is not harmful. It can become harmful if they are provided with the right conditions for them to grow and attack. Such conditions that result in fungal infections are found in areas of the body that remain moist and warm and do not have much contact with fresh air, like the groin.

When a fungal infection occurs in the groin area it becomes itchy. This occurs in the crease in between the legs and the genital area. This infection occurs mostly in men and it is the scrotum area that gets affected the most. It usually appears as a red rash and in extensive cases, this rash can reach all the way down the inside of the thighs.

When it comes to treating this fungal infection, anti-fungal creams are a suitable option, and they are available over the counter at local pharmacies and drugstores. There are creams that are available like clotrimazole, miconazole, terbinafine, ketoconazole and econazole. All of these are helpful in treating fungal infections.

One should use the cream topically around the area and make sure to carefully read the instructions before using these types of creams. If the case is more severe, a doctor will recommend taking a mild steroid along with using the fungal cream. This will reduce the redness as well as take care of the itchiness. Bear in mind that steroids alone cannot treat the fungus. Therefore, it should be accompanied with an anti-fungal cream.

Itraconazole, terbinafine and griseofulvin are forms of medicine that will be recommended if the fungal infection has become severe or has spread to other parts of the body.

One needs to keep a few things in mind in order to prevent a fungal infection from returning. Here are a few tips that should help in keeping fungal infections at bay.

Take care to keep the area clean and dry. It is important to keep the area dry, as fungal infections tend to thrive in areas that are moist. One can use a hair dryer to dry the groin area if it’s hairy.

Fungi have a tendency to multiply in dirty areas. Therefore, it is highly recommended that you change your underwear daily.

Be aware of the signs of athlete’s foot which usually occur on the skin between the toes. The skin of the feet become flaky and itchy. This infection can also reach the groin area. There are treatments that are applicable for both the fungal infection in the groin area, as well as for athlete’s foot.

One should wash their towels frequently and not share them with others, since this infection is highly contagious. If you are suffering from a fungal infection, it is advisable to keep a separate towel for yourself, so that you do not infect others.