Popularly known by the names of "athlete's foot," "jock itch" and "ring worm," some fungi can attack any area of the skin, ranging from head to toe. Depending on how strongly you live your life, once your skin barrier is breached--from heat, light, trauma or lowered immune response--fungi can take over in no time. Fortunately, anti-fungal creams available as over-the-counter medications can prove handy.
Anti-fungal agents (creams, lotions, or sprays) can penetrate the skin layer called stratum corneum to either kill the fungi or stop them from multiplying. Application of a ketoconazole shampoo, for instance, can get rid of ringworm of the scalp. Topical anti-fungal creams can clear ringworm of the body spread by household pets and other infected folks, as well as Tinea versicolor, a chronic fungal infection of the stratum corneum. Miconazole can clear athlete's foot, jock itch and vaginal yeast infections.
What to Look for
Fungicidals, such as terbinafine, naftifine, and butenafine, can clear your fungal mess in a week with a once-daily application. They are preferred over fungistatic drugs such as miconazole, clotrimazole, and ketoconazole, just in case you decide to stop when you see the slightest sign of improvement. They prevent the fungi from returning in full force. Fungal infections of the nails, seen primarily in adults, require anti-fungal cream and an oral medication. Infections of hair follicles, nails and other widespread infections often require oral treatments. While patients might prefer sprays, most physicians prescribe branded products in cream or lotion bases. And, if you are looking for cost-effective solutions, topical creams can provide the most bang for your buck. Terbinafine can offer you the highest number of disease-free days and the lowest cost per disease-free day.
Common Pitfalls
It is essential, however, to comply with the full course of the medication prescribed. Changing horses midstream or stopping altogether can prove disastrous for skin and overall health. For instance, when using the fungicidal naftifine for athlete's foot, jock itch or ringworm, the cream is usually used once a day for two to four weeks. You need to continue using it even if you feel well. Do not stop using naftifine without talking to your doctor. But when you start, do let your doctor know if you are allergic to naftifine or any other drugs. If you are already on prescription and nonprescription drugs, like vitamins, or are pregnant, plan to become pregnant or are breast-feeding, call your doctor. Watch out for any side effects including: Itching, burning, irritation or stinging, redness, dryness and rash. Avoid getting naftifine into your eyes, nose or mouth, and do not swallow it. Also avoid any dressings, bandages, cosmetics, lotions, or other skin medications to the area being treated unless that is what your doctor ordered.
Key Words: Fungal Creams, Antifungals, Tinea, Athlete's Foot, Jock Itch, Ring Worm
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