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Do you know how to treat ringworm on the scalp. If you think a worm causes the ringworm infection, then you’re headed in the wrong direction. The infection is actually caused by fungus that appears as a round, ring-like shape at the infected area. This is why it is called ringworm. Ringworms appear not only on the skin but also on the scalp but the ringworm found on the body is different from the one found on the scalp. Children, generally, are more susceptible to this infection. Tinea capitis or scalp ringworm infection is transmitted both by direct and indirect contact. The treatment requires both local and oral medication according to the Directors of Health Promotion and Education. Below are a few tips you can use to learn how to treat ringworm on the scalp.
Consult Your Physician
If you think you are infected by scalp ringworm it is best to consult your doctor. He may be able to diagnose it by merely looking at it or he may prescribe some test to confirm it and this may include scraping some cells from the infected area to check for fungal spores.
How to Treat Ringworm on the Scalp with Medicated Shampoos
Specially medicated shampoos to treat ringworm of the scalp are generally available in the market. The most common ones are those that contain selenium sulfide or zinc pyrithione. Some of these shampoos are sold over-the-counter while others may require your doctor’s prescription. Over-the-counter shampoos may be used two or three times a week as indicated on the bottle. It is possible that you may need to use the medicated shampoos for a longer period. In such cases, you must diligently follow your doctor’s advice. You must remember that shampoo alone will not cure the infection; oral medication is also required to be taken.
Topical Creams and Oral Medications
Creams for local application and shampoos may not be able to penetrate the skin fully and so they become less effective in the treatment. Oral medication works internally to treat the root cause of the infection and therefore, it is more effective. Follow the doctor’s prescription of oral medicines, faithfully. A course of oral steroids is said to reduce inflammation and itching. You could ask your doctor to prescribe this. As a rule, avoid scratching the infected area as this spreads the infection and will delay recovery. It will also cause hair loss.
Using Natural Remedies and Medications for Ringworm
However, if you are not comfortable using steroids, you can try some natural remedies. Tea tree oil, apple cider vinegar and garlic are said to be effective in treating scalp ringworm. Sometimes, it is noticed that the infection disappears before the full course is completed.
A Few Preventive Measures
It is not advisable to discontinue the medication on seeing such a recovery since the fungus may be concealed and could get activated after a short gap. You must continue it for its full term as advised by your physician.
Many times, treating scalp ringworm infections may cure the symptoms but a full recovery happens only when your hair grows fully in the infected part. Once a complete cure is affected you must avoid using combs, brushes or hats that belonged to an infected person as this could re-introduce the fungus on your skin. You would do well to keep away from people who have scalp ringworm infection.