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Ringworm is a superficial skin infection, also known as tinea. It is caused by fungi call dermatophytes. Fungi are microscopic plants that can live off dead tissues of skin, hair, and nails. It is much like mushrooms and how they are able to grow on dead bark of a tree. Ringworm is characterized by a red ring of small blisters, or a red ring of scaly skin that will grow outward as the infection worsens. Children are most susceptible to catching ringworm, but adults are affected as well. Other forms of tinea that are more common in adults are athlete’s foot, and jock itch. Once fungus is established, it spreads out in rings. The center of the ring may clear up, while a new ring of infection develops at the edge of the old ring.
Ringworm can be spread many ways. When children share hats, combs, or brushes it can be passed. Also sharing towels, clothing, or sporting equipment can pass on the infection. The most important part of preventing ring worm is personal hygiene. Keeping personal items to yourself is a good idea. Symptoms of having ring worm dry, brittle hair or hair loss around infected blisters. Severe itching is also very common. A red-ringed patch of small blisters or scaly skin may also occur. The red-ringed patch of blisters is however the most common symptom of all.
Treatment of ringworm may be a prescription strength antifungal medication, which a doctor must prescribe. These drugs will work to kill the fungus and prevent it from coming back. The medication comes in many forms, such as shampoo, powder, cream or lotion, or there is also a pill available so medicine can spread through-out the entire body. Ringworm is not serious, but very contagious. Once a person notices they have ringworm, it needs to be treated.
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