Do you have a rash that looks like a ring? You may be suffering from ringworm, an infection caused by fungi. While it sounds scary, having ringworm doesn't mean you're unclean — anyone can get it! It's important to understand the causes of this common skin condition so you can take steps to prevent it and get rid of any current outbreaks as soon as possible. In this article, we'll discuss the causes of ringworm and provide several helpful tips for preventing the spread of this infection.
How is Ringworm Caused?
Ringworm is a prevalent issue, especially in tropical regions and during sweltering, humid summers. Ringworms can easily propagate in warm, damp settings. This includes locker rooms and indoor swimming pools. Ringworm is caused by various fungi. These infectious fungi tend to thrive in warm and humid environments. You can contract ringworm through various means:
- Direct skin-to-skin contact with an individual who is infected.
- Interaction with animals like dogs, cats, or farm animals carrying ringworms.
- Contact with soil that has been contaminated by ringworm.
- Handling objects, such as phones, combs, or towels, that have been contaminated with the fungi responsible for ringworm.
Your likelihood of developing a ringworm infection increases if you:
- Reside in tropical regions.
- Spend considerable time in hot and humid weather.
- Experience heavy sweating.
- Engage in activities like wrestling, football, or other contact sports.
- Live in close quarters with others, such as military housing.
- Share towels, clothing, razors, or other items without proper disinfection (razors) or washing (clothing and towels).
- Are overweight or obese.
- Have diabetes.
- Wear clothing that rubs against and irritates your skin.
- Frequent locker rooms or pools without thoroughly washing and drying your feet before you put on shoes and socks.