Table of contents:
- Various effective ways to treat itching in the groin
- 1. Use a topical cream
- 2. Take oral medication
- 3. Make sure the groin area is always dry
You may go awry when you experience itching in the groin area (Jock itch). You want to scratch it right away, but of course you hesitate to do it if you're in a public place. If you don't scratch it, you will feel even more uncomfortable, right? So, is there a way to treat itching in the groin? Check out the following explanation.
Various effective ways to treat itching in the groin
Basically, the problem of itching in the groin can be treated with home treatments. The itching problem is often caused by a fungus (Inguinal Tinea). However, if the symptoms persist for more than two weeks, then it is time for you to use certain drugs as recommended by your doctor.
Here's how to treat itching in the groin that you can try, namely:
1. Use a topical cream
How to treat itching in the groin can be started with the use of over-the-counter antifungal creams, lotions, or powders. These topical medications can help relieve an itchy sensation in the groin in 2 to 4 weeks.
Examples of topical drugs include:
- clotrimazole (Canesten AF® cream)
- miconazole (Zeasorb®, Daktarin®, or Lotrimin®)
- ketoconazole (Nizoral®, Xolegel®, or Extina®)
- oxiconazole (Oxistat®)
- terbinafine (Lamisil® or Terbinex®)
- hydrocortisone cream
Instead, avoid using topical drugs in the form of ointments. Because the ointment contains oil which can increase moisture in the groin area. Instead of relieving the itching, this can actually make your symptoms worse.
If you are confused about which cream or lotion you should choose, you can compare the two in this article.
2. Take oral medication
If topical creams don't relieve jock itch, this could be a sign that your groin infection has spread. Doctors will usually prescribe a number of oral medications to reduce the itching, for example itraconazole (Sporanox®) or fluconazole (Diflucan®).
Just like other types of drugs, these drugs also have side effects that you need to pay attention to. These side effects can include stomach upset or headaches.
If you experience it, immediately consult a doctor to get other drugs that are suitable for your health condition.
3. Make sure the groin area is always dry
The drugs that have been mentioned above can indeed treat itching in the groin. However, all of this effort you put in could be in vain if you keep the groin skin moisturised.
Therefore, always keep the groin area dry to prevent fungal growth. Avoid wearing tight underwear so as not to cause further irritation in your groin area. In addition, make sure you regularly change your underwear at least twice a day, in the morning and at night.
