Jock itch, also known as tinea cruris, is a type of fungus that causes rashes on the skin. Men or women can get jock itch. It's characterized by an itchy rash that usually appears around the genital area, inner thighs or buttocks. Sometimes jock itch goes away quickly after treatment, but occasionally the rash spreads, is more uncomfortable, and becomes fairly resistant to treatment. In cases of extreme jock itch, a multi-dimensional approach is most effective.
Oral Medications
Oral prescription medications can be very effective in healing extreme jock itch. Your doctor may prescribe drugs such as fluconazole (Diflucan) or terbinafine (Lamisil) to kill the fungus. You also may have to take an antibiotic along with a jock itch medication. The purpose of the antibiotic is to get rid of any other underlying infection that may be compromising your immune system and thereby making it harder for your body to fight the fungal problem.
Topical Treatments
Using a topical treatment for jock itch in conjunction with oral medications may be necessary in order to wipe out the condition. Clotrimazole (Lotrimin AF) and terbinafine (Lamisil AT) are two over-the-counter treatments that may work in some instances. However, for more intense cases of jock itch, prescription topical medications may be more effective. These medications include oxiconazole (Oxistat) and econazole (Spectazole).
Preventive Measures
Besides taking oral medications and using topical treatments for severe cases of jock itch, you also can practice some preventive measures to assist in the healing process and keep the fungus from returning. Try to keep the affected area clean and dry. Bathe at least once daily, dry off thoroughly and change your clothes as often as necessary. If you are sweating a lot, you may need to bathe and change clothes more often. Make sure your clothes fit properly and aren't rubbing against the area, which may cause chaffing.
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