Fungal infections cause itching and other annoyances. Thankfully, there is a very simple way to treat a nagging yeast infection. Nystatin-based ointments can be purchased over the counter and are used to treat fungal infections affecting the skin. This active ingredient is effective in fighting most infections within a few days or a week. If you apply nystatin following the instructions to the letter and take all necessary precautions, your skin will heal without any problems.
Steps
Part 1 of 2: Apply a Nystatin Ointment
Step 1. Read the instructions on the medicine's package insert
Consult the leaflet to learn more about the dosage of the drug, or how often to apply it and for how long to perform the treatment. You can also contact your doctor or pharmacist for this information,
- Application instructions may vary depending on the severity of the infection and its location.
- Follow the specific directions given to you by your doctor.
Step 2. Wash the affected area and dry it well before using Nystatin
Wash the area where you will apply the ointment using warm water and a mild soap. Gently pat it dry with a clean towel.
For example, if the infection is on your foot, wash it thoroughly in the shower and pat it dry with a clean towel
Step 3. Wash your hands thoroughly and put on a pair of medical gloves
Wash your hands for 20 seconds using antibacterial soap and warm water, then pat them dry with a clean towel. Then put on a pair of disposable sanitary gloves in your size. It is important to wear gloves when applying nystatin to treat a fungal infection. Candidiasis is quite contagious and can spread very easily.
- Disposable sanitary gloves can be purchased at the pharmacy.
- Avoid using them if you have a latex allergy. However, you are unlikely to have this problem, as most disposable gloves are nitrile.
Step 4. Apply enough product to coat the affected area
With your gloves on, squeeze a small amount of the ointment onto your fingertip. Gently massage it on the affected area, so that the ointment is absorbed well into the skin, without leaving any residue.
- If the infection affects a large area, apply another small amount of ointment to coat it. Use a dose that suits your needs.
- It is better to apply the ointment in moderation than to leave excess product on the skin.
Step 5. Wash your hands after applying the ointment, even though you have used gloves
Wash your hands well for 20 seconds using an antibacterial soap and warm water. Blot it with a clean towel.
- If you use nystatin to treat your hands, remove excess ointment from your fingertips with a small piece of clean toilet paper. Do it once the application is complete, after the product has been absorbed by the skin, so as not to compromise its therapeutic action.
- Avoid rubbing your eyes after application.
Step 6. Apply the ointment 2 times a day, morning and evening
Use the product twice a day, with an interval of about 12 hours between applications. Putting it on before breakfast and before bed can help you remember to apply it regularly.
Set a reminder on your phone if you have trouble remembering to apply the ointment
Step 7. If you miss an application, fix it as soon as you remember
Avoid doubling the dose if you have forgotten to put the ointment and it is close to the next application. Instead, put it on as soon as you realize you've missed a dose.
Step 8. Continue to use the ointment for the duration of the treatment prescribed for you
Use it following the doctor's directions to the letter, even if the symptoms disappear. Stopping treatment prematurely can cause the fungal infection to come back, although it seems to have passed.
Nystatin is usually applied twice a day for a period of time between 3 and 10 days. If you have a severe infection, your doctor may prescribe a longer treatment
Part 2 of 2: Precautions to Take with Nystatin
Step 1. Tell your doctor about any other medicines or supplements you take
Before starting nystatin treatment, tell him what medications or vitamins you are taking. If you find it more convenient, prepare a list before your appointment and take it with you.
Although few negative interactions with nystatin are known, your doctor can determine whether it makes sense to prescribe the ointment in light of the medications you take
Step 2. Avoid applying patches or bandages to the affected area
Keep the infection area dry and allow it to breathe in between applications of the ointment. Do not cover it with gauze or other bandages, as the skin affected by a fungal infection must be allowed to breathe. Covering it up can retain moisture and cause candidiasis to spread.
Step 3. Do not apply Nystatin Ointment around the eyes, nose or mouth
Avoid putting the product on these delicate areas, unless directed otherwise by your doctor. If nystatin accidentally gets in your eyes, nose or mouth, wash the area with plain tap water and contact your local poison control center.
On the internet you can find the number of the poison control center that operates in your area
Step 4. Look for symptoms associated with an allergic reaction, such as hives or difficulty breathing
Look out for symptoms of a life-threatening allergic reaction called anaphylactic shock. Wheezing, hives, swelling of the tongue and throat, difficulty breathing and itching are all symptoms that need to be taken seriously.
Anaphylactic shock triggered by the use of nystatin is rare but possible. If you are concerned about having a severe allergic reaction, go to the emergency room or call an ambulance
Step 5. Contact your doctor if you notice any redness or irritation in the application area
Look for the classic symptoms of topical irritation on the area where you applied the ointment, such as redness or warm skin to the touch. If you experience these symptoms, stop using the medicine and contact your doctor to determine if you should continue the treatment.
It is best to go directly to your doctor so that he can personally examine the allergic reaction
Advice
- Keep nystatin away from sources of light and moisture to preserve the integrity of the medicine.
- Check with your gynecologist before applying the ointment to the genital area. Most ointments are formulated for external use and should not be applied inside the genital organs. However, there are specific over-the-counter versions to treat vaginal yeast infection.
Warnings
- Check with your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding so that they can weigh the potential risks and benefits of using nystatin ointment.
- See your doctor if your symptoms don't go away within 2 weeks.
