What should I do if it gets itchier the more I scratch?
Oct 14, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wan
Introduction
The term "below" usually refers to the vulva. If the condition is caused by a fungal infection, antifungal medications such as miconazole nitrate ointment should be applied locally under a doctor's guidance to relieve itching. If it is due to eczema, zinc oxide ointment can be applied locally to alleviate itching. If the cause is infection with bacteria or other pathogenic microorganisms, mupirocin ointment is recommended to improve symptoms.
The term "below" usually refers to the external genitalia (vulva). Itching in the vulva that worsens with scratching can be treated with appropriate medications depending on the underlying cause, such as fungal infection, genital eczema, or bacterial infection.
1. Fungal Infection
If tinea cruris (jock itch) caused by a fungal infection is present, the vulvar itching tends to worsen with scratching. In such cases, antifungal medications such as miconazole nitrate ointment or clotrimazole cream should be applied locally under medical guidance to relieve itching symptoms.
2. Genital Eczema
If poor vulvar hygiene leads to localized eczema, itching may also intensify with scratching. In this situation, topical treatments such as zinc oxide ointment or hydrocortisone butyrate cream can be applied to alleviate itching.
3. Bacterial Infection
Bacterial or other microbial infections of the vulva can lead to increased vaginal discharge and itching. Scratching further aggravates the itch, creating a cycle of worsening discomfort. It is recommended to use antibacterial ointments such as erythromycin ointment or mupirocin ointment locally to treat the infection and relieve itching symptoms.
