Tuesday, January 26, 2010

Humans and Ringworm - Information You Need to Know

By Cynthia Collins

Despite its name ringworm in humans and animals is not caused by worms, or for that matter, any kind of living animal. Ringworm is actually a fungal infection. And it does not discriminate between humans and animals. Both are equally susceptible to it. Ringworm derives its name from the shape of the rash itself, which looks like a reddish circle, or ring on the surface of the skin.

Ringworm in humans can be seen as red circular rashes with healthy skin in the middle. The edges of the rashes are usually raised. It can affect any part of the body including the scalp. Ringworm of the scalp can be seen as a small pimple that becomes larger. You might also notice that the scalp develops rings of rashes much like the ones seen on other parts of the body.

Temporary bald spots may occur with ringworm that affects the scalp. This is due to the hair follicles becoming hardened and brittle in the areas where the rash occurs, causing them to break at their base. The hair does not die however, and will grow back once the rash is gone. It can be very unbecoming, however, and creates embarrassment for those infected in this way. The most common form of ringworm, which has probably affected just about everyone at one time or another, is athletes foot. Though there are not tell-tale rings with this fungus, it is nonetheless quite itchy and irritating. Athletes foot is not difficult to treat and there are many over the counter remedies to choose from. All varieties of ringworm are quite contagious, and one must be diligent in their treatment in order to fully cure it.

The most common way to contract ringworm is through direct contact with another human or animal that has the infection. And because the fungus can remain dormant for long periods, it can be contracted by coming into contact with infected objects, such as clothing, furniture or other fixtures. Ringworm also has a long incubation period (10 days) so it is often difficult if not impossible to figure out where it was originally contracted. The fastest way to get rid of ringworm (though not necessarily the most inexpensive) is getting a diagnosis from a doctor so the correct medication can be prescribed.

Bandages should be used to cover the rash to minimize further infection of yourself or others. Treatments must be followed through to the very end, otherwise the rash may reappear. Anything that could have possibly come into contact with the fungus, clothing, furniture and fixtures should be thoroughly washed with bleach and hot water. Avoid any contact with pets or people until the rash has completely cleared up.

Ringworm is generally spread through scratching. It is generally considered one of the itchiest rashes you will ever get. This is why it is so hard to get rid of. It's just plain difficult not to scratch at all. Even with treatment the rash remains itchy, increasing in intensity until about the fifth day after the rash first appeared. You must just remain tough and bear with it. After about the fifth day the itching will start to subside.

When you are dealing with ringworm you need to be diligent. Stay on top of continuing with the cream for the full prescribed length of time and change the band-aid daily. Ringworm will linger if it is not treated correctly.

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