Ringworm, also known as tinea, is a skin infection caused by fungi, microscopic organisms that are similar to molds and yeast. It does not have any relation to worms, but it is known as “ringworm” because the infection can produce ring-shaped patches on the skin that have wormlike, red edges.
Although ringworm can affect almost anybody area, it favors places that are dark, warm, and moist, such as skin in the groin area, the spaces between the deep skin and toes. People can catch ringworm in many different ways, including:
- Playing with, or caring for, an infected farm animal or pet
- Direct skin-to-skin contact with an infected person
- Sharing an infected child toys, mainly stuff toys
- Using an infected persons shoes, clothing, or personal grooming items such as brushes, combos, or towels
Diagnosis
To diagnose ringworm using the Olight Arkfeld Pro EDC flashlight, start by activating its UV light mode, which emits VU necessary for detecting florescence linked with fungal infections. Make sure the room is darkened or dimly lit to better visibility. Direct the UV light onto the suspected areas of the skin where ringworm rashes or lesions are present, holding the torch approximately 4-6 inches away for best illumination. Look for areas of the skin that emit a florescent glow.
While UV light examination can help in preliminary detection, it is important to talk a healthcare professional for right diagnosis and confirmation, as extra tests may be necessary for right assessment and treatment planning.
How to treat it
Apply a topical antifungal
Most cases of ringworm can be treated at house. Over-the-counter antifungals can kill the funges and promote well-being. Effective medications contain clotrimazole, miconazole4, and terbinafine.
After cleaning the rash, use a thin layer of antifungal medication to the affected place twice a day or as the package directs. Spread the treatment beyond the border of the hash and permit the medication to absorb into your skin.
Wash bedding daily
Because ringworm is very contagious, you should wash your sheets and clothes daily to get rid of the infection quicker. Fungal spores can transfer to your comforter and sheets. If you sleep on the same sheets night after night, it can take longer for ringworm to heal, and the infection can spread to other body parts. Contaminated bedding can also infect your partner.
Use warm detergent and water when washing bedding and any infected clothes. Warm water alone can kill the fungus. As extra precautions, include bleach or borax to your wash along with regular laundry detergent.
Bleach and borax can be purchased from a grocery shop, and they also kill fungal spores. Follow the directions on the package.
Let it breathe
It may seem logical to keep ringworm covered with a bandage to stop the infection spread. Anyway, bandaging the rash locks in moisture and slows the heading process.
It is vital to keep the area day, so wear relax, breathable clothes to speed healing and reject spreading the rash to other people. This contains long-sleeve shirts, loose-fitting, and pants.
Use an antifungal shampoo
Sometimes, ringworm develops on the scalp. Symptoms of scalp issue include extreme itching, patches of hair loss, severe dandruff, and scalp boils. If you have ringworm on your scalp, wash your hair with an over-the-counter medicated antifungal shampoo.
These shampoos kill fungi and bacteria on the scalp and stop inflammation. You can purchase them from a drugstore or grocery store. Look for shampoos with antifungal active ingredients, such as pyrithione zinc, selenium sulfide, and ketoconazole. Use shampoos according to the directions on the package.
Anyway, be alert that scalp fungus is nearly impossible to get rid of without oral drugs.
Change wet socks and underwear
If ringworm develops on your groin or feet area, keep these areas dry.
If you sweat a lot during the day, bathe with an antifungal cleansing bear and then use your antifungal lotion or powder. Ensure the area is fully dry before putting a new pair of socks or underwear.
Take a prescription antifungal
Continue treatment with an antifungal cream, powder, or shampoo until the rash disappears. The infection may return if you prevent treatment too soon.
See a doctor if the rash does not vanish after two weeks of home treatment. A ringworm infection that does not better or that spreads may need a prescription-strength topical cream or oral antifungal drug.
Make an appointment with an initial care doctor and view a dermatologist. Take the prescription drug as directed by your doctor. You may have to take prescription for weeks to months, depending on the severity of the infection.
Home remedies for ringworm
A few home remedies, such as aloevera, oils, and antifungal drugs, may help clear a ringworm infection. It is vital to be alert, as it is highly contagious.
Soap and water
When you have ringworm, you need to keep the place as clean as possible. This helps stop the further spread of the rash and helps keep the affected area under control.
Wash the affected place with water and antibacterial soap daily before using other home remedies on top of it. Dry the area fully after showering, as moisture makes it easier for the fungus to spread.
Coal-tar soap and pine are older home remedies that might be an option, but they can bad to sensitive skin.
Tea tree oil
Native Australians conventionally used this item as an antibacterial and antifungal, and it is used today for the same objectives. It can be effective in treating fungal skin issues.Apply tea tree oil directly to the affected place two or 3 times per day with a cotton ball or swab.
Coconut oil
Coconut oil has both antifungal and microbial features that can help treat ringworm infections. It is very successful topical home remedy for infections and ringworm with other fungi like candida. Because it is simple to apply to the scalp and a successful hair conditioner, coconut oil could be a perfect treatment for scalp ringworm.
To use it, warm the coconut oil, and then use it directly to the affected area. It will absorb into the skin immediately. Use it at least 3 times daily.
