Don't Scratch that Itch - Five Symptoms to Make You Run to the Doctor

 

Both males and females can experience the discomfort of genital itching. This itching may be caused by sexually transmitted diseases, irritation, or allergies. In some circumstances, the itching may clear up all by it self. In other situations, you may need to see your health care provider for treatment that cannot be remedied via over-the-counter measures.

 

Here are some ways that females can avoid genital itching.

·                    When wiping after urinating or having a bowel movement, you should wipe from front to back. Doing this will lessen the chance of bacteria entering the vagina from the anus.

·                    Using feminine wash products such as douches and sprays can upset the acidic balance in the vagina.

 

Here are some ways that males can avoid genital itching.

·                    For men who are not circumcised it is important to wash under the area of the foreskin.

·                    Keep the genital area dry

 

Here are some preventive measures that apply to both male and females to avoid genital itching.

·                    Do not wear tight fitting, synthetic underwear. Remember to change underwear daily.

·                    When you are done bathing, showering, or swimming, it is important to dry off completely.

·                    Do not have unprotected sex

 

Symptoms have their own language so look at what some of them are telling you. If fungus is the cause, the itching and redness may appear slowly. There will be spots of scaly skin appearing. The reason to keep your peri-area dry and allowing air to circulate is that fungus thrives in an environment that is moist and warm. If you find that the itchiness is increasing this may point to scabies or pubic lice. For a woman the itching could be a sign that she is getting a yeast infection. If there is, either pain involved with severe itching in a male or female this could be a sign of a possible outbreak of herpes.

 

What are some symptoms to aid in the relief of genital itching? There are many over-the-counter remedies available. The only downside to this is that genital itching has symptoms that closely resemble other diseases as well. If you try an over-the-counter product and do not find relief in the time specified in the instructions, do not go back to buy something different. Make an appointment with your doctor who will then be able to discuss with you the options available.

 

In addition, here are some of the treatments available without a prescription.

To help ease the discomfort of chaffing use powder, there are many different types of powder available such as cornstarch and talcum powder.