Antifungal medications have various uses. They are available over-the-counter or by prescription depending on strength, but one thing remains constant: Most antifungal creams or ointments are used to treat fungal infections that affect the skin anywhere on the body.
Ringworm
Ringworm is a fungal infection of the skin that causes round rings to appear. These rings are often red, scaly and may itch. As they begin to heal, it's normal for the center to appear normal while surrounded by an inflamed and raised ring. Antifungal creams like miconazole are usually prescribed.
Athlete's Foot
Athlete's foot is a fungal infection that many people who workout at the gym or frequent locker rooms pick up. It results in an inflamed and itchy rash between the toes. Over-the-counter antifungal sprays or creams often do the trick, though persistent cases may require prescription-strength drugs.
Jock Itch
Jock itch is a fungal infection of the groin area. Much of the time, men get this infection from playing sports and wearing a cup, which allows moisture to accumulate, providing a hospitable environment for fungi. A topical OTC or prescription-strength antifungal will ease the itchiness and kill the fungus with regular use.
Yeast Infection
Yeast infections are also known as candidiasis and develop when the pH balance of the vagina is thrown off either by taking antibiotics or other factors. This results in abnormal discharge and severe vaginal itching. Luckily, over-the-counter creams and suppositories eliminate the fungus and return the vaginal environment to normal.
Pityriasis
Pityriasis isn't as common as ringworm or athlete's foot, but it can be just as uncomfortable. Also known as tinea versicolor, this fungal infection causes the skin to change pigment (either lighter or darker) on the arms, legs, chest or neck. A simple antifungal cream will usually take care of it, though a doctor's visit is recommended to rule out other skin conditions.
Thrush
Thrush is a kind of yeast infection that affects the mouth and throat. It causes white patches to form on the tongue and in the throat. Sometimes, when you're on antibiotics, for instance, the balance of organisms in the mouth is thrown off, causing candida to overgrow, resulting in thrush.
Inhaled Fungal Infections
Several kinds of fungal infections affect the lungs because they are inhaled. Spores live in soil and, when disturbed, may be inhaled and cause an infection of the lungs or other parts of the body. Examples include blastomycosis, which causes flu-like symptoms and potentially a pulmonary infection; coccidioidomycosis, which can cause flu symptoms, muscle pain and in rare cases, lung disease; and histoplasmosis, which may not have symptoms at all but can cause lung disease that may be fatal. Treatment for these fungi is usually an antifungal like ketoconazole.
