Ringworm
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Ringworm is also known as Dermatophytosis. It is a fungal infection of the skin. Ringworm is a misnomer, the infection isn't caused by a worm, it's caused by a fungus.
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You can prevent ringworm by practicing healthy and hygienic behaviors. Remember to wash you hands after interacting with an animal. If you have a pet, keep its living area clean.
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If you have a weak immune system, avoid any animals or people who are suspected to have ringworms. You should shampoo and shower your hair regularly. Wear shoes if you shower in community areas. In addition, avoid sharing personal items such as clothing or brushes, these carry infective spores.
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Your doctor will use black light to view your skin in the affected area. The fungus glows under black light.
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To treat ringworm your doctor will recommend both medications and some lifestyle adjustments to treat ringworm.
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MEDICATION
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Your doctor will often times prescribe Ketoconazole which is a prescription strength cream that is often used to treat fungal infections. Other over the counter products that would help may contain clotrimazole, miconazole, or other related ingredients.
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HOMECARE
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Your doctor will often tell you to avoid clothing that irritates the infected areas. Washing bedding and clothing daily during an infection is recommended. Lastly, cleaning and drying your skin regularly will help get rid of the disease.
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Symptoms depend on where you are infected. With a skin infection, you may experience 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, and patches with edges that are define or raised.
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If you experience ringworm in your nails, they become thicker, discolored, or begin to crack. If the scalp is affected, bald patches may develop.
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WHO IS AT RISK?
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The infection is very common among children and people who own cats. Cats often carry ringworm and children often share items that aren't clean.
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You may be likely to develop ringworm if you come in contact with the fungi while you are wet or if you have minor skin injuries or abrasions. Using a public pool or public shower may expose you to the fungi. Those who share unwashed clothing also have the risk of developing the infection.
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