Ringworms are caused by fungal infections. The affected areas include hands, feet, neck, and face. At first, they appear as red dots on the skin and as the infection spreads, these red dots become worse and the inflammation increases. The affected area is covered with the infection. If not treated on time, the infection can worsen resulting in blister and pustules. The affected areas become crusty and have a ring like shape, hence the disease was named Ringworm.
Ringworm is caused by an infection of fungal organisms named dermatophytes. People who have eczema are prone to this infection because their outer layer of the skin is not intact. Ringworms are highly contagious and can spread quickly. Ringworms can spread through contact with an infected human as well as an animal. Chances are that you might get this infection by touching an object that was previously touched by another infected person. In some rare cases, you can get infected by soil. If you have prolonged contact with infected soil, you are likely to catch the infection.
Let’s discuss the symptoms and treatments available for ringworms.
Symptoms Of Ringworms
Ringworms usually occur in humans. The main symptom of ringworms is red, raised itchy patches on the skin with a defined outer edge. These patches are often lighter in the center and the edges are more defined. The affected area is itchy for long periods of time. Sometimes, this infection may cause lesions. These lesions are called Dermatophytids. They are an allergic reaction to the fungus. Since the infection can affect any area of the body, the symptoms vary from one body part to another.
#1. Tinea Corporis: This refers to fungal infection on the legs and arms. The ringworm symptoms include inflamed and scaly patches or even blisters in these areas.
#2. Tinea Capitis: This is the ringworm infection of the scalp. It is the most common form of ringworms in children. The ringworm symptoms include the affected area becoming a bald spot which is itchy and scaly.
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#3. Tinea Cruris: This type of ringworm infection refers to the infection of the groin. It is also known as “jock itch”. This infection extends from the folds of the groin to the thighs. The ringworm symptoms appear as itchy, red or brownish patches.
#4. Tinea Barbae: This is when ringworms form on facial hair. The ringworm symptoms include swelling, crusting, and itching resulting in breaking of hair from the affected area.
Treatment For Ringworms
There is natural as well as medical treatment available for ringworms. The types of treatment you avail depend upon the severity of your infection. There are a number of treatments available for treating ringworms. Natural remedies include:
#1. Tea Tree Oil: Tea tree oil is useful when ringworms are on the feet. it has antifungal and antiseptic properties which can treat many skin diseases including ringworms.
#2. Garlic Extract: Garlic is used to treat many skin infections including ring worms. it is used to treat fungal infections and has proven to be an effective remedy for ring worms.
#3. Apple Cider Vinegar: The main ingredient used as salad dressing also helps in fighting off fungal infections. Apply apple cider vinegar on the affected area with a cotton ball and repeat several times.
#4. Coconut Oil: The healing agents found in coconut oil are very effective in treating ringworms. The goodness of antifungal, antibacterial and antiseptic properties help in healing the ringworms.
The medicinal treatments for ringworms include products like:
#5. Antifungal Ringworm Powders: These powders are most suitable for ringworms on the feet or on the groin area. They are very effective for treatment of ringworms in these areas.
#6. Ringworm Creams: These creams can be used to treat ringworms on the neck, feet, and hands. Some creams are also suitable for the jock itch as well. But consult a doctor before you apply any cream in this area.
#7. Antifungal Lotions: These lotions are used when there is a persistent itching, scaling and burning in the ringworms, particularly in the groin area. They are effective lotions that help to reduce the inflammation and the infection.
#8. Antifungal Soaps: Athletes can use these soaps as they are easy to carry, and can be used after their sport. This is commonly used by wrestlers and helps in preventing the onset of any fungal infection.
Consult your doctor before you buy any of these products.
(Image Courtesy: Vitality Medical)
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