Ringworm: What's it?
Tinea, or dermatophytosis (also known as ringworm), is a contagious form of skin infection that's caused by dermatophytes, a type fungus. The ringworm is a fungal infection that causes a reddish, itchy, and ring-like appearance to the skin. This is the most widespread skin disease. It can spread by direct contact between an infected person, animal or object, such as towels and clothing, and even soil contact. This isn't caused by a parasite, but rather by fungus.
Ringworm can affect any area of your body, including your scalp, nails, feet and groin. Ringworm is itchy, uncomfortable and can cause inflammation, redness and scaling. Ringworm may persist for weeks, or even months if it is not treated. Ringworm isn't life-threatening but can cause severe discomfort and affect your quality of life.
Ringworm: Common Causes
Contact with the fungi responsible for ringworm is the most prevalent cause. Contact with the fungi that cause ringworm can be made through direct contact, such as with infected animals or people, clothing, towels or soil. Sharing personal belongings such as towels, combs and razors can spread ringworm. Ringworm can be contracted by coming in contact with infected objects or surfaces in public areas such as locker rooms and gyms, swimming pools, and other similar places.
Ringworm can be contracted from contact with infected objects or persons. Living in humid environments, poor hygiene and excessive sweating are all factors that can increase ringworm risk. Ringworm is more common in children because of their developing immune system.
Ringworm Treatments
Antifungal medication is the most commonly used treatment for ringworm. Topical Antifungals (creams, ointments and oral Medications ) are available. For up to four weeks, topical antifungals can be applied to the area twice or three times daily. For up to six weeks, oral antifungals can be taken one or two times per day. These medications' effectiveness will vary depending on how severe the infection is and what type of fungus it is.
Ringworm can be treated with antifungal medication as well. There are many options for ringworm treatment, including over-the-counter creams and lotions that can be applied to it, as well as home remedies like apple cider vinegar or tea tree oil and Light Therapy such as photodynamic therapies. These treatments may not be effective in all cases and must be used with antifungal medication.
Views of experts and professionals regarding Ringworm
A study in The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology found that early treatment of ringworm can be very effective. In treating moderate to severe cases of ringworm, topical antifungal medication were found to be more effective than placebo. In severe cases, oral antifungal medication was more effective than the topical.
A second study , published in American Family Physician, found that mild cases can be treated with home remedies like tea tree oil and apple cider vinegar. The study found that home remedies were not as effective than antifungal medication and should be combined with them.
Natural remedies or tips for ringworm
Ringworm can be managed with natural methods and other treatments. They include:
- Keep the area dry and clean.
- Avoid contact with infected people and objects and wash your hands frequently
- Excessive sweating and tight clothes are not recommended.
- To reduce itching, use moisturizing lotions and bath oils.
- To reduce the itching, apply a warm compress on the area.
- Use over-the-counter antiitch creams or lotions
- Use diluted tea tree oil or apple cider vinegar to treat the area
These natural tips and remedies should not be considered as a substitute for medical treatment and should only be used with antifungal medication.
Conclusion
Ringworm, which is highly contagious, causes a ring-like, reddish skin rash. Ringworm is a serious condition that requires medical attention. Antifungal medication and light therapy are the most common treatments for ringworm. There are also natural ways to manage ringworm, such as keeping your skin dry and avoiding tight clothes, applying tea tree oil or apple cider vinegar to the affected areas, and washing it off with warm water. Ringworm is usually treated with proper diagnosis.
Ringworm, as the name suggests is caused by fungus. Although it's not serious, it can cause discomfort and affect your quality of living. For a successful treatment, early diagnosis is crucial. Ringworm is best treated with antifungal medication. Natural remedies can also be combined with the medications. Most cases of ringworm are curable within weeks with proper treatment.