Despite the name ringworm, this fungal infection has nothing to do with worms or insects. It is a fungus infection which affects both humans and animals. The name ringworm is a hangover from ancient times, when it was believed that that the red ring on the skin is caused by a worm. However, the name stuck. Read below for a few instruction on how to treat ringworm in humans.
Where Can Ringworm Appear?
The fungal infection manifests itself as a red round rash which has healthy skin in the centre. The infection is normally ridged and can occur in any part of the body even on the scalp. On the scalp, the ringworm first appears as a small pimple which then grows. It is also possible that these rings of red rashes appear on the scalp similar to the ones seen on the body. The infection is easily spotted as there would be bald patches which could be temporary. The hair gets the infection and become dry and breaks.
Sometimes, ringworm manifests itself on the feet and is known as athlete’s foot. However, though the familiar red ring does not appear, it can be treated with over the counter (OTC) medication. The infection spreads rapidly on contact, through scratching and from infested beds and clothes.
Avoid Spreading the Infection
Infection normally spreads on direct contact with the person or pet which is infected. The hard truth is that articles which the infected person was in touch with and even soil can spread the infection. The ringworm is likely to develop after an incubation period of 10 days after contracting the infection. Your doctor will identify the type of fungal infection and then decide on the medication or antifungal cream. In most cases, the cream is likely to do the trick.
The cream has to be applied to the affected area twice a day, or according to the doctor’s instruction. Keep the area covered, either with a band- aid or with clothing. Continue with the cream for the requisite time, even after the rash has gone.
Disinfect Your Clothes and Other Items
Make sure to wash all the clothing and other fabric in the house, in hot water and bleach, which has come in contact with the infected person. You will have to keep washing and using bleach every time the household fabrics and all articles that come into contact with the infected person. You will also have to ensure that other people and pets in the house are not endangered.
Look But Don’t Scratch
Itching is the culprit which spreads the infection to other parts of the body. When you scratch the infected area, it will spread to other areas of the body that you touch or scratch. The rash may not be painful, but it sure itches. You have to be patient and avoid scratching the infected area, as the medication has to take effect. The third and fifth day of the rash are the two worst days, as the itchiness will be at its worst. The cure will begin to become effective after that.
A Final Word on How to Treat Ringworms in Humans
Above all, be careful when you are treating a case of ringworm. The first thing to remember is to continue with the cream for the period that the doctor has prescribed and also change the band-aid every day. It is tough to get rid of ringworm, so treat the infection with diligence.