Ringworm is a group of contagious diseases of the skin, hair or nails of humans and domestic animals. Ringworms will basically affect the scalp, the groin area and the feet. This infection is also referred to as tinea. It is caused by a fungus of the genus Trichophyton.
There are five types of ringworm grouped according to the site of infection. Tinea corporis affects the skin on the body and it causes a red ring-like rash with raised edges on the face or anywhere on the body. It is common in children. Tinea capitis affects the scalp and is highly contagious especially among the children of ages 2-10. It causes a red scaly and itchy scalp. Loss of hair on the scalp is common. Tinea cruris/ jock itch is common in males. It causes red ring-like patches in the groin area but not the scrotum. Tinea unguium is the ringworm of the finger or toe nails. It causes deformation of the nails. Finally Tinea pedis or athlete’s foot affects the feet. Whitening of the feet between toes and blisters on the feet is likely with the last.
Treatment is dependent on the age, overall health, medical history, location of the ringworm, types of ringworm and tolerance to specific medication. Scalp ringworm treatment includes an oral antifungal prescribed for four to eight weeks. A special shampoo can be applied to eliminate the fungus. A large, tender and swollen lesion known as the kerion may require steroids to reduce the swelling. Topical/ oral antifungal agents can be used for ringworms of the body, groin and foot.
Most treatments for ringworm are usually topical. However for complicated scalp infection due to such types of ringworm as Tinea capitis, treatment may involve special oral antifungal, Griseofulvin. Taking a fatty meal or a glass of milk with the medicine is recommended to aid absorption. In topical applications for scalp infection, a shampoo with selenium sulfide makes the patient less contagious.
As a precaution, ringworm is often misdiagnosed for other conditions like numular eczema and pityriasis, hence proper diagnosis by a doctor should be done before medication. You can also get some types of ringworm from cats and dogs. Therefore pets should be diagnosed of the same to avoid cyclic reinfection.
Ringworms are common, but the good thing is that there are treatments for the conditions. You will need to check the health store around you or online to get the real cure.