How do I Choose the Best Fungal Infection Remedy?

Fungal infections are skin infections that are caused by a fungus. There are several types of fungal infections, typically known as ringworm, jock itch, and athlete's foot. Choosing the best fungal infection remedy is often a matter of personal preference. Most drug stores carry creams, ointments, and sprays designed to treat specific types of fungal infections, or some people may prefer to use a natural fungal infection remedy such as tea tree oil.

Athlete's foot is the name given to a fungal infection that affects one or both feet. The skin on the feet often becomes red and extremely itchy, and the skin between the toes may begin to rub off. An over-the-counter medication known as tolnaftate is often used to treat this condition and is available as the active ingredient in sprays and creams. Some potential side effects when using tolnaftate as a fungal infection remedy may include mild to moderate skin irritation, or in rare cases a severe allergic reaction may develop. If the face or tongue begins to swell or if hives develop and there is trouble breathing, emergency medical assistance is needed.

Ringworm is a fungal infection that can affect any area of the body and usually appears as a relatively small reddened ring of itchy, flaky skin. Either medications containing miconazole or clotrimazole may be used as a fungal infection remedy for ringworm. Side effects may include nausea, headache, or stomach pain. Severe allergic reactions are rare, but any negative side effects should be reported to a doctor right away.

Jock itch is a fungal infection that develops in the groin area. The same medications used for ringworm may be used to treat jock itch. For fungal infections of the scalp, a medicated shampoo containing selenium sulfide may be used as a fungal infection remedy. Potential side effects of selenium sulfide include skin irritation, hair loss, or hair discoloration.

Tea tree oil is a very popular natural fungal infection remedy. The tea tree oil may be applied directly to the affected area, although care should be taken if using on the groin area. Some patients have reported mild to moderate tingling or burning for a few moments after applying tea tree oil. Tea tree oil does have a strong fragrance that is unpleasant to many people. For this reason, many who use this method of treatment for fungal infections of the scalp prefer to add a few drops of tea tree oil to a favorite shampoo or conditioner.