There has often been confusion related the condition called ringworm because it has nothing to do with a worm at all. It is called “ringworm” because the fungal infection for which it is named appears on the skin as a round, worm-like circle, or ring.
There are different names for the umbrella infection ringworm depending upon where the infection is located. Ringworm that appears on the scalp and neck is called tinea capitis, while ringworm found on the torso is called tinea corporis. Ringworm that appears on the feet and ankles is called tinea pedis, though it is more commonly known as Athlete’s Foot.
Although ringworm is most commonly found in children under the age of twelve, the infection can occur on anyone at any age. It can be identified as a circular ring on the skin that looks like a red or metallic skin infection. It will usually have scales, which is what causes the metallic color, and it will typically itch. It sometimes starts as a small circle on the skin’s surface, but will eventually expand, and as the center of it heals, the infection will create the ring.
Causes of Ringworm
Ringworm is caused by fungal spores that can be found in places we visit every day, such as the park, on the subway, in animal dander and on people. They are transmitted through breaks in the skin, and thrive in moist, damp places. This means that areas where people are likely to sweat will be the most common places for ringworm to thrive.
Ringworm is extremely contagious, and can be spread in a variety of conditions through different means. It can be spread through hairbrushes, unwashed laundry, contaminated sheets, skin-to-skin contact and swimming pools and lakes. It is almost impossible to avoid it completely.
Diagnosing Ringworm
Ringworm can usually be diagnosed physically by a doctor or dermatologist, but if it is necessary, a small collection of the skin can be viewed under a microscope and identified. Usually, it doesn’t go that far, however, and a doctor can tell you immediately that you have it by observing the ring-like patch of skin.
Ringworm Treatment Options
There are several over-the-counter medications that can treat ringworm, and can be recommended by your local pharmacist. Creams, lotions and oral medications are used to treat the fungal infection, and will usually clear up a case of ringworm within a couple of weeks.
If over-the-counter medications do not work, you can also go to the doctor and have a more potent medication prescribed to you. It is also important to do the following in order to avoid spreading ringworm or reinfecting yourself.
– Make sure that the infected area is always clean and dry.
– Refrain from sharing towels, bedding, hairbrushes and other communal items with others.
– Wash clothes and bed sheets once a day.
– Use a mild soap to clean the infected area each day.
– Avoid scratching the infected area.
