Know More About Ringworm

Ringworm, also known as dermatophytosis or tinea, is a fungal infection of the skin. The name “ringworm” is a misnomer, since the infection is caused by a fungus, not a worm.

Ringworm infection can affect both humans and animals. The infection initially presents with red patches on affected areas of the skin and later spreads to other parts of the body. The infection may affect the skin of the scalp, feet, groin, beard, or other areas.

Recognizing ringworm

Symptoms vary depending on where you’re infected. With a skin infection, you may experience the following:

• red, itchy, scaly, or raised patches

• patches that develop blisters or begin to ooze

• patches that may be redder on the outside edges or resemble a ring

• patches with edges that are defined and raised

If you’re experiencing dermatophytosis in your nails, they may become thicker or discolored, or they may begin to crack. If the scalp is affected, the hair around it may break or fall off, and bald patches may develop.

Types of ringworm

Ringworm can go by different names depending on the part of the body affected.

• Ringworm of the scalp (tinea capitis) often starts as small sores that develop into itchy, scaly bald patches. It is most common among children.

• Ringworm of the body (tinea corporis) often appears as patches with the characteristic round “ring” shape.

• Jock itch (tinea cruris) refers to ringworm infection of the skin around the groin, inner thighs, and buttocks. It is most common in men and adolescent boys.

• Athlete’s foot (tinea pedis) is the common name for ringworm infection of the foot. It is frequently seen in people who go barefoot in public places where the infection can spread, such as locker rooms, showers, and swimming pools.

Who is at risk for ringworm?

Anyone can develop ringworm. However, the infection is very common among children and people who own pet cats. Both cats and dogs can catch ringworm and then pass it on to humans who touch them. Signs to be aware of in pets include:

• hairless patches of skin that appear circular

• crusty or scaly patches

• patches that may not be completely hairless but have brittle or broken hairs

• opaque or whitish areas around the claws

You may be more likely to develop dermatophytosis if you come into contact with the fungi while you’re wet or if you have minor skin injuries or abrasions. Using a public shower or public pool areas may also expose you to the infective fungi.

If you’re often barefoot, you may develop ringworm of the feet (athlete’s foot). Those who often share items such as hairbrushes or unwashed clothing also have an increased risk of developing the infection.

Home care

In addition to prescription and over-the-counter medication, your doctor may recommend that you care for your infection at home by practicing some of the following behaviors:

• avoid clothing that irritates the infected area

• cover it with a bandage if you’re unable to avoid clothing that irritates the area

• wash bedding and clothes daily during an infection to help disinfect your surroundings

• clean and dry your skin regularly

If you’ve been scratching your skin frequently due to the infection, you may also develop a staph or strep infection of the skin.

HOMOEOPATHIC TREATMENT

Tellurium: Top Homeopathic medicine for Ringworm infection with lesions on large part of body

Sulphur: Homeopathic medicine for Ringworm infection with intense itching and burning

Psorinum: Homeopathic treatment for Ringworm on scalp and bends of joints

Arsenic Album:  Top Homeopathic remedy for scalp Ringworm