One day, you wake up and notice a red, itchy patch on your arm. You scratch it, hoping it will disappear, but it only worsens. Being frustrated, you look closer and see a ring-shaped rash with inflated edges and a definite centre. You wonder what it is and how you got it. When you search online, you discover that you have ringworm, a prevalent skin infection caused by fungus. You feel disgusted and embarrassed. How could this happen to you?
To clarify all your questions about this disease, we have come up with a blog that not only talks about the ringworms’ meaning but also discusses the ailment’s diagnosis, treatment and prevention.
What is a Ringworm?
Ringworm is a skin-affecting fungal disease that causes a ring-shaped rash on different body parts. Considering its name, many misinterpret this disease as caused by a worm. In reality, mould-like parasites residing on the external layer of the skin cause it.
Ringworm can spread through direct or indirect contact with an infected person or animal. It can affect the scalp, beard, body, groin or hands.
In medical terminology, healthcare professionals refer to this disease as dermatophyte infection, dermatophytosis or tinea.
Symptoms of Ringworm
The signs of ringworm may differ depending on the part of the infected body. Still, they generally include a circular rash with a clear or scaly centre, redness, inflammation and skin itching.
- Ringworms of the body (tinea corporis) usually appear as patches with the characteristic ring shape on the torso, arms or legs. The patches may be slightly raised, with blisters or bumps on the edges. The patches may also overlap or form larger areas of infection.
- Ringworm of the scalp (tinea capitis) often starts as isolated scaling or flaking of the scalp that develops into itchy, scaly bald patches. It is more common in children than adults. The hair close to the infected area may break or fall off, leaving a black dot on the scalp. The infection may also spread to the eyebrows, eyelashes or beard.
- Ringworm of the nail (tinea unguium) affects the fingernails or toenails, making them thick, brittle, discoloured or distorted. The nail might also detach from the underlying tissue or break apart. The infection may spread to other nails or the surrounding skin.
- Ringworm of the groin (tinea cruris), also known as jock itch, affects the skin around the genitals, inner thighs or buttocks. It causes a red, itchy rash that may have a burning sensation. The rash may have a scaly border or small bumps. The rash is more common in men than women and may worsen with sweating, friction or tight clothing.
- Tinea pedis, commonly known as athlete’s foot or ringworm of the foot, impacts the skin between the toes or on the sole. It results in scaly, cracked or peeling skin that can appear red, swollen or blistered. Symptoms may include a foul odour or itching. This infection is more prevalent among individuals who wear closed shoes, perspire heavily or share footwear or towels with others.
Diagnosis of Ringworm
There are multiple ways to diagnose this infection. If the condition has not worsened yet, your doctor may diagnose this disease by inspecting the affected skin and asking questions about the symptoms.
If your doctor is unsure of the condition, then in such a scenario, he/she may ask you to undergo a few tests, such as —
- Observation under Black Light: Some fungi glow under black light, which can help identify the infection.
- Microscopic Examination: A small sample of the affected skin is scraped and examined under a microscope for fungal elements.
- Skin Biopsy or Fungal Culture: A skin piece or fluid sample extracted from a blister can be sent to a laboratory for further testing.
Treatment of Ringworm
You can treat ringworms with the help of topical or oral antifungal medications. Prescriptions for these medications are determined based on the infection’s location and severity.
Topical antifungals include creams, lotions, powders or shampoos containing Clotrimazole, Miconazole, Terbinafine or Ketoconazole. Doctors usually recommend topical antifungals to be applied to the affected area twice daily for at least two to four weeks.
Oral antifungals include pills such as Fluconazole, Griseofulvin, Itraconazole or Terbinafine. Doctors usually prescribe them for ringworms affecting the scalp, nails or beard and for severe or widespread infections. Take oral antifungals as a doctor prescribes, typically for six to 12 weeks or until the patches clear.
However, remember that oral antifungals may cause side effects such as headache, nausea, liver concerns or allergic reactions. Therefore, use them with caution and under medical supervision.
One can opt for home remedies like applying coconut oil, apple cider vinegar, turmeric, and essential oils. However, there is no scientific validation that these home remedies are effective; hence, talk to your doctor before opting for such remedies. Also, remember that home remedies are not an alternative to antifungal treatment options prescribed by doctors.
If you are a mom-to-be, consult your doctor and consider topical medicines like Clotrimazole, Ciclopirox, and Oxiconazole. Although these medicines do not harm the foetus, taking them under medical supervision is wise. Typically, doctors do not prescribe medicines like Miconazole and Ketoconazole to pregnant women owing to their potential side effects during pregnancy. Also, discussing effective treatment options with your healthcare provider if you are chestfeeding/breastfeeding is prudent.
Risk Factors of Ringworm
Some factors that can make you more likely to catch ringworm are:
- Residing in a hot and moist environment
- Being in direct contact with a person or animal that has ringworm
- Using personal belongings like clothes, towels or sheets that belong to someone infected with the ailment
- Playing sports that require touching the skin with other players, for example, wrestling
- Putting on clothes that are tight or do not allow air circulation and cause sweating
- Having a low immunity that makes it challenging to resist infections
How Can Ringworm Be Prevented?
To prevent ringworm, follow these steps:
- Keep your skin clean and dry. Wash your hands regularly with soap and water, especially after touching animals or infected areas. Use a clean towel to wipe your skin, and avoid sharing towels, clothing, bedding or other personal items with someone infected with ringworm.
- Choose footwear that lets your feet breathe. Do not go barefoot in places like public showers or locker rooms. Wear fresh socks and underwear every day. Keep your nails short and clean.
- Avoid sharing sports equipment with others, such as gloves, pads or helmets. If you play sports requiring bodily contact, shower right after your game or practice and wash your sports gear and clothes regularly.
- If you notice any signs of ringworm on your pet, visit a vet as soon as possible. Sanitise the items and areas that your pet uses, such as toys, bedding or furniture. Use a vacuum cleaner to get rid of any infected hair or skin flakes on the floor or carpet. Protect yourself with gloves and long sleeves when you touch animals infected with ringworm, and clean your hands afterwards.
- Touching infected soil can transmit ringworm in some cases. Avoid highly contaminated soil, and remember to clean your hands and clothes after being outdoors or gardening.
Conclusion
To identify and treat ringworm effectively, you must understand what it is. Unlike what the name of this disease suggests, it is not a worm infection but a fungal one. You should look for signs of the infection, get diagnosed early and follow the treatment plan, which may involve ointments or pills. You can also prevent ringworm infection by keeping yourself and your surroundings clean and avoiding physical contact with people or animals infected with the ailment. Having health insurance can help cover the cost of consultations and treatments, ensuring timely and effective care for managing infections like ringworm.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.