How to treat fungal infection

If a fungal infection occurs, you need to pay attention to the treatment in your life. For general fungal infections, you can use some antifungal creams or active antifungal drugs, such as the common miconazole, clotrimazole, and econazole.

1. Except for tinea capitis and onychomycosis, most fungal infections on the skin have mild symptoms and are usually treated with antifungal creams. Many effective antifungal creams are available over the counter. Antifungal powders are generally not used. The active ingredients of antifungal drugs include miconazole, clotrimazole, econazole and ketoconazole.

2. Generally, the cream is applied twice a day , and the treatment continues for 7 to 10 days after the skin lesions disappear. If the cream is stopped too soon, the infection may not be eliminated and the rash may return.

3. Antifungal creams will not be effective until a few days have passed , during which time corticosteroid creams can be used to relieve itching and pain. Low-dose hydrocortisone creams are available commercially; higher concentrations require a prescription.

4. Keeping the infected area clean and dry helps inhibit fungal reproduction and promote skin healing. The infected area should be washed frequently with soap and water, and then sprinkled with talcum powder after drying. Avoid powders containing cornstarch, as it can promote fungal growth.

5. If the fungal infection has exudate , it may be complicated by bacterial infection. Treatment with antibiotics is required. Apply antibiotic cream or take antibiotics by mouth. Diluted aluminum acetate solution or Whitefield ointment may also be used to dry out oozing skin.