What Should You Know About Ringworm?

Ringworm is not a worm; instead, it is a skin infection that causes red, scaly patches or bumps in a ring-like shape, hence the term. Ringworm is caused by the fungi that live on the dead tissues of your skin, hair, and nails. You can get infected with these fungi at any place in your body, mostly the sweaty regions. When these fungi infect the toe web-spaces, the infection is called Athlete’s foot, and when it affects the groin area, it is known as jock itch.

What are the Symptoms of Ringworm?

The typical sign of Ringworm is the red, scaly patch on the skin in a ring-like shape with raised borders. It sometimes leads to bumps, initially, accompanied by itching. Over time, these bumps turn into a ring or circle-shaped patch. The inside area of the circle may look clear or scaly, but the outer line is usually raised and bumpy.

How Ringworm Spreads?

Ringworm is contagious, and one may acquire this infection in any of the following ways:

• From another person. Ringworm spreads by skin to skin contact.

• From your pets. Ringworm may spread to you via your pet, even if you’re simply grooming or rubbing your pet. Thus, wash your hands once you’re done.

• From the objects. The fungus that causes ringworm can linger on surfaces, objects like clothes, towels, combs, and brushes.

• From the soil. If someone stands barefoot on the ground infected with fungus, they may get ringworm on their feet as well.

What is the Treatment of Ringworm?

The treatment of ringworm depends on its severity, area affected and age of the patient. and. Usually, doctors recommend medicines that can be readily available through any drugstore. These medicines can be antifungal tablets,creams, lotions, or powders that are effective against ringworm. The dermatologists also give you a set of instructions to be followed daily at home.

How Can You Prevent Ringworm?

The fungi are present everywhere, however, there are some things you can do to lower the chances of getting ringworm or stop it from spreading:

• Keep your skin clean and dry.
• Wear flip-flops in public showers or in locker rooms.
• Change your socks regularly if you sweat excessively.
• Bathe immediately after your work-out .
• Make sure your undergarments are clean and dry.
• Do not share your towel or comb with someone else.
• Wash your hands properly after playing with your pet.
• Use anti-fungal powders in sweaty regions regularly to prevent further recurrence.

#momhealth #childhealth #familyhealth