Image Source: Medical News Today
Depending on the site of the infection, ringworm can be classified into types known by different names:
Ringworm infection is contagious and can be transmitted or contracted in the following ways.
Any person having a direct skin-to-skin contact with a person infected by a ringworm rash is likely to contract it.
One can easily catch a ringworm rash from an infected animal by simply touching it. Pets such as cats, dogs and cows are common carriers of ringworm infection.
Touching objects or surfaces used by a ringworm infected person or animal has a higher possibility of transmission. Possible objects of transmission could be towels, clothes, combs, brushes, bedding, and linen.
Although a rare way of transmission, prolonged exposure to highly ringworm infected soil could also cause ringworm infection in humans and animals alike.
Depending on the severity of the infection, ringworm treatment may go through several stages as mentioned below:
A jock itch, athlete’s foot, and ringworm of the body can usually be treated with an antifungal lotion, cream, or powder comprising of active ingredients such as clotrimazole and terbinafine, that would not need a prescription and are easily available over the counter. Follow the directions carefully while applying the medication.
If there’s no improvement in the rash symptoms even after two weeks, one must consult a doctor immediately. A doctor shall be able to suggest a prescription-based, topical, anti-fungal medication that could alleviate the infection.
In case of extremely severe infections or those pertaining to scalp, beard, or toenails- the doctor may prescribe an oral, antifungal medication and the recovery time could take about 2-3 months. Additionally, the doctor may also prescribe anti-fungal shampoos and lotions for hair and scalp.
Interestingly, topical application of certain herbs and their oils have been able to serve as effective home-based ringworm treatment.
Essential oils such as coconut, tea tree, lemongrass can be applied twice or thrice a day over the infected area using a cotton ball. Coconut oil, particularly, is an excellent treatment for the Ringworm of the Scalp.
Fresh ground turmeric with its curcumin, is not only a powerful anti-bacterial but also an effective anti-fungal that stems the infection growth. Apply the paste onto the infected skin and wash off once it dries away.
Aloe vera is a natural panacea known for its antibacterial and antifungal properties. Application of fresh aloe vera gel soothes the inflammation and itchiness at the ringworm rash site.
Research studies have established that the anti-microbial licorice powder could also be a powerful anti-fungal alternative to cure ringworm infection. Applying a home-made licorice paste twice a day on the infection site for 10 minutes has shown effective results.
Prevention is better than cure and the following precautions must be followed in order to avoid a ringworm infection.
Do not share any personal belongings such as clothes, shoes, towels, soap, combs, bed, makeup brushes or any grooming items with anyone else. They are strictly for your personal use.
Maintain personal hygiene regularly and thoroughly dry your body after a shower.
Wear clean socks and underwear, preferably cotton-made. Ensure that you have an extra pair of clean socks to replace your sweaty socks post a workout session.
Carry an extra pair of footwear to wear to walk through the locker rooms, shower or pool area.
Get the pets at home regularly checked by a veterinarian to rule out any chance of ringworm infection caused to them.
Provide your kid with an extra set of sleeping bag, pillow and blanket from home for sleepover with his/her friends.
Most cases of ringworm usually get cured within a span of two weeks with minimal medication. Any negligence towards ringworm treatment could result in severe conditions that may then take upto 3 months to cure. Hence, wisdom lies in preventing the infection in the first place rather than neglecting those initial symptoms. However, to get severe conditions treated, it is advisable to have a good health insurance policy such as the ones available on Bajaj MARKETS to cover the cost of treatment and hospitalisation without burdening your pocket.