Have Refractory Groin Rash, Used Canesten Athletes Foot Cream On It, But No Relief. Suggest?
Thanks for your query
You seem to be having a fungal infection of the groin which is tinea cruris.
Fungal infections of the groin are recurrent in many people especially when it is not adequately treated.
I would suggest that you should take complete therapy for the same which includes both oral and topical drugs.
A regular course of oral antifungals include something like fluconazole to be taken once weekly for at least 6 weeks.
Since you have already used clotrimazole, I would suggest that you should switch over to a higher topical antifungal in the form of terbinafine cream at least twice a day.
There are certain precautions which need to be taken care off especially if patients with recurrent infections.
Wear cotton clothes and undergarments as far as possible in order to reduce sweating.
Do not apply any oils or moisturizers over the groin region.
Clean and dry the area regularly.
Take treatment for the prescribed time. The rash might decrease after one to two weeks of therapy but completion of six weeks of treatment is essential for complete cure of infection.
Once the infection is completely cured, you can continue to use an antifungal powder regularly during runners every year in order to prevent recurrence.
Hope it helps. Let me know if you need clarifications.
Dr Geetika Paul
As the skin problem in your case is a chronic one, I would definitely prefer that you see a doctor and take his/prescription of the above medications. But if the appointment cannot be fixed or feasible you can visit you can visit your chemist and ask for terbinafine containing creams.
Antifungal creams are available over the counter in many countries. You may take the above therapy as mentioned above and see for the response at the end of one week.
Hope it helps. Please let me know if you need any further clarifications.
Wishing you speedy recovery
Dr. Geetika Paul