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| Ringworm |
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 "Ringworm" or "Ringworms" refer to fungal infections that are on the surface of the skin. The name was born from a belief that the infection was due to a worm. Ringworm is a fungus infection in the skin.
Some of these fungi produce round spots on the skin. A physical examination of the affected skin, evaluation of skin scrapings under the microscope, and culture tests can help doctors make the appropriate distinctions. A proper diagnosis is essential to successful treatment.
The medical term for ringworm is tinea. (Tinea is the Latin name for a growing worm.) Doctors add another word to indicate where the fungus is located. Tinea capitis, for instance, refers to scalp ringworm, tinea corporis to fungus of the body, tinea pedis to fungus of the feet, and so on.
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Symptoms |
Ringworm of the scalp usually begins as a small pimple that becomes larger, leaving scaly patches of temporary baldness. Infected hairs become brittle and break off easily. Yellowish crusty areas sometimes develop.
Ringworm of the body shows up as a flat, round patch anywhere on the skin except for the scalp and feet. The groin is a common area of infection (groin Ringworm). As the rash gradually expands, its center clears to produce a ring. More than one patch might appear, and the patches can overlap. The area is sometimes itchy.
Ringworm of the foot is also called athlete's foot. It appears as a scaling or cracking of the skin, especially between the toes.
Ringworm of the nails causes the affected nails to become thicker, discolored, and brittle, or to become chalky and disintegrate.
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Causes |
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You can get ringworm from people, animals or places.
Ringworm spreads from person to person by touch. When someone with ringworm touches or scratches the rash, the fungus sticks to the fingers or gets under the fingernails. The fungus is then spread when that person touches someone else. Ringworm can also be spread by using items such as clothes, towels or hairbrushes that were used by someone with a ringworm infection.
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Animals can carry some types of fungi on their fur or skin without showing signs of ringworm infection. Sick or carrier animals can transmit fungi to people by direct or indirect (hair or dander) contact.
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Places like gyms, shower stalls and floors can transmit fungus if used by someone with ringworm. Other people can catch the fungus if exposed to these places.
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Home Remedies |
Garlic (Allium sativum) has a pungent yet multi-talented reputation. Its many uses include lowering cholesterol, controlling blood pressure, and fighting fungi and bacteria. A study published in the International Journal of Dermatology shows that garlic extract is effective at destroying up to 90% of the fungi-causing tinea infections.
Try salt and vinegar.
Instructions: Take vinegar and salt,form a paste and leave it on about 5 min then wash off. Give it a week. (submitted by visitor)
Be carefull when using any suggested home remedy. There are so many ailments that many times we may be wrong on the type of condition we may have. Always consult a Doctor to make sure you don't make your condition worse by using the wrong home and herbal remedies.
Black Walnut (Juglans nigra) is a strong antifungal that has recently gained popularity as a treatment for ringworm and other fungal infections. The compounds in the bark and leaves act as astringent and antifungal agents, attacking and ridding the body of fungi.
If you have suggestions or know of a proven home remedy add it here in the comment area.
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| Herbal Remedies |
Oregano Oil applied topically is a powerful antifungal.
Tea Tree Oil has powerful antifungal properties
Lavender (Lavandula officinalis) fights ringworm, penetrating the skin and helping heal infections. It also reduces inflammation and itching.
If you have suggestions or know of a proven herbal remedy add it here in the comment area.
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| Wellness Program |
Ringworm is difficult to prevent. The fungus is very common, and it is contagious even before symptoms appear.
Steps to prevent infection include the following:
- Educate the public, especially parents, about the risk of Ringworm from infected persons and pets.
- Keep common-use areas clean, especially in schools, day-care centers, gyms, and locker rooms. Disinfect sleeping mats and gym mats after each use.
- Do not share clothing, towels, hair brushes, or other personal items.
Infected persons should follow these steps to keep the infection from spreading:
- Complete treatment as instructed, even after symptoms disappear.
- Do not share towels, hats, clothing, or other personal items with others.
- Minimize close contact with others until treated.
- Make sure the person or animal that was the source of infection gets treated.
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