If you want to know hot to treat ringworm in children, you must first understand that ringworm is actually a quite common fungal infection among. So there’s nothing to panic about. Ringworm manifests itself in a circular shape on the surface of the skin. It is this shape that has earned it the misnomer “ringworm,” as it is a fungi infection and has nothing to do with worms. The rings on the skin could be hard on the outside while the inside of the ring would be smooth. These infections are seen on the thighs, stomach, arms, back and on the scalp. Below are some tips which show you how to treat ringworm in children and keep your kids safe from this fungal infection.
Think Twice About OTC Ringworm Creams
It is always better to see a physician to find out what the infestation is and whether over the counter (OTC) anti-fungal creams would do the trick. Do keep in mind that children are allergic to some of the creams. So start with a small dab of cream on the affected area, wait and watch for any allergic reactions. Start using the cream from Day two once you have made sure that there is no adverse effect.
Most people come to the conclusion that the infection is ringworm based on the typical circular rash. It is better to go in for a culture, especially for infections on the scalp. In many cases, parents reach out to topical steroids but you must be careful as it would change the look of the infection. So please tell your doctor if you have started some treatment or have applied any cream on the infection.
Consider Oral Medicines
Make sure you ask the doctor about all the treatments available especially the oral medicines. Ringworm infestation on the scalp can prove to be tough to treat than the ringworm found in other parts of the body. Experts advise the use of a medicated shampoo which could be used on the scalp to deal with the ringworm. Make sure to ask the physician about the vitamins to help immune system. Remember there are a number of chewable Vitamin C and multivitamins for kids.
Check The Entire Household for Infection
Keeping in mind the contagious nature of the infection, you must check all the members of the family for ringworm. This means everyone, parents, siblings and pets. If there is an infection then it has to be treated according to the severity of the case. However, you might find it difficult to find out if your pet is infected, so it is better to consult the veterinary doctor on this score.
You have to wash all the bedding, clothing, towels and washcloths in hot water using bleach where ever possible. Discourage the children from sharing their combs, brushes, hair barrettes and clip, at least when there is a ringworm infestation.
What About Medicated Shampoos?
Most doctors would advise you on the use of shampoos which contain selenium sulfide. Shampoos which contain selenium sulfide are said to stall the spread of the infection to other parts of the body. Ask the doctor how often the shampoo can be used.
However, avoid scrubbing the infected area when washing. This might cause the skin to rupture and the ringworm might get worse or spread to other parts of the body. It is best to avoid tight fitting clothes when there is a ringworm infection, as these might cause chaffing and rubbing against the skin.
Put Out a Warning…Seriously
It would be good idea to let the day care centers, nannies and school officials know that the kids are down with ringworm, mainly because of the highly contagious nature of the infection. As an extra precaution wash all the towels and beddings shared by the kids. Toys, which are shared, should be sterilized. Make sure to warn the school nurse so that she could also take the necessary precautions.