Ringworm is a very common fungal skin disorder that thrives particularly well in humid and warm areas. It affects the skin in different areas and the name for each infection depends on the area it affects. For example, when the infection is on the feet or between the toes, it is referred to as tinea pedis or simply what we all commonly know as athlete’s foot.
The scalp ringworm infection is called tineas captis, and the groin one is called tinea cruris
The names should not worry you so much; the major concern is to understand the symptoms and ringworm treatment as well.
Ringworms, contrary to what most people believe, are not caused by a worm, but by fungi. These are microscopic organisms that live well on the outer dead layer of our skin. This is not to say that all fungi that live in our bodies are harmful. A ringworm infection is characterized by lesions that are red in color and very itchy. The outer region of the lesion is scaly and raised from the normal skin evenness. Note that the condition is mildly contagious and as such, infected children should not be kept from going to school but should be accorded the proper ringworm treatment.
Ringworms normally responds very well to anti-fungal treatment, be they oral or in form of creams and ointments. However, as any experienced or professional medical practitioner will tell you, it is always recommendable to seek a doctor’s advice before buying these over-the-counter medications. Always have a doctor clarify whether what you have is for sure a ringworm infection or another type of skin infection. Diagnosis of skin conditions is normally very contentious. You might go for an antibacterial medication while what you have is a fungal infection. This will complicate the condition.
Once you have begun ringworm treatment, be sure to be faithful to it for not less than 4 weeks. This will guarantee eradication of the condition and chances or recurrence will tend to null. Other simple procedures of keeping the infection at bay include keeping the skin well dried and washing beddings as regularly as possible. As always, prevention is better than cure. Before you can get to the point where you are looking for medication, take simple self-care measures like avoiding contact with pets that have skin infections, avoid sharing personal items like combs, hairbrushes and towels.