What is Ringworm?
Despite its name, ringworm (tinea) is a highly contagious skin rash that is caused by different types of fungus. This rash can form in a number of places on the body including the beard, feet (athlete’s foot), groin (jock itch), and scalp. Although both men and women can get this infection, it affects men more. According to experts, approximately 20% of the population is infected with ringworm.
Causes of Ringworm
The body plays host to a number of bacteria and fungi. For the most part, these organisms do not cause trouble. However, they can lead to the development of infections and diseases if certain conditions arise. The fungi that causes ringworm thrives in warm damp places on the body like the groin or skin folds, but it can only survive on the surface of the skin. It is extremely rare for ringworm to go deeper than the epidermis, and it cannot live in mucus membranes like that found in the mouth or vagina.
The infection is highly contagious and is easily passed from one infected person to another via skin to skin contact. However, a person can get ringworm by touching or using the same objects as another infected person like a comb or towel. Swimming pools and damp shower floors are also breeding grounds for tinea. Less commonly, you can get ringworm from an infected animal, and cats are frequently the source of animal to human transfer.
Symptoms of Ringworm
The most recognizable symptom of ringworm is a red, itchy rash. Most of the time, the rash is shaped like a ring but not always. Tinea on the hands and feet cause the palms and soles to become thick, dry, and scaly. If the infection spreads to the nails, they will become thick, discolored, and may crumble. Ringworm in the groin area causes a rash to develop in the folds of the skin which may spread to the thighs or buttocks. Tinea in the hair leads to bald patches.
Treating Ringworm
Although the disease is not life-threatening, it can cause a person to experience social consequences if left untreated. For example, sports authorities may prevent a wrestler from participating in matches until he or she is no longer contagious.
Luckily, it is an easily treatable condition. The doctor may prescribe oral medication like Lamisil or Sporanox. Be aware, though, that prescription drugs can cause side effects and natural treatments are a better approach to get rid of ringworm quickly and safely.
There are several effective natural over-the-counter medications you can use for ringworm treatment, some of which we have thoroughly researched and reviewed. Learn about these options on the homepage.
Preventing Ringworm
There are several things you can do to avoid getting ringworm in the first place:
- Do not share bedding, towels, sports equipment, or clothing
- Always wear protective shoes in locker rooms and the beach
- If exposure is suspected, wash clothing and bedding in hot water using a fungicidal soap
- Do not touch pets that have bald spots as they may be carrying the fungus