Ringworm

Ringworm
Ringworm is a skin infection caused by a fungus. Ringworm can affect skin on your: body – tinea corporis scalp – tinea capitis groin area – tinea cruris, also called jock itch feet – tinea pedis, also called athlete’s foot nail – Onychomycosis
Ringworm is contagious. It can be passed from one person to person. Or you may get it through contaminated items such as combs, unwashed clothing, and shower or pool surfaces.
You can also catch ringworm from pets that carry the fungus. Cats are common carriers.
The fungi that cause ringworm thrive in warm, moist areas. It is more likely when you have frequent wetness such as from sweating.
Features of this disease are: Itchy, red, raised, scaly patches which are raised on the outer side around a normal looking skin.On scalp they form red itchy patches and may leave bald areas. If nails are infected, they become discoloured, thick, and even crumble. In groin area – Itchy, burning rash. Feet have itching, burning and cracked skin between toes.
The disease may be cured by using over the counter antifungal preparations containing Miconazole or Clotrimazole.
If this does not give relief one may need to see a doctor who may give other preparations like Ketokonazole. Antibiotics may be needed for secondary infection.Treatment of Onychomycosis is challenging because the infection is embedded within the nail. As nail is not a very vascular structure it is difficult for medication to reach. As a result, removal of the disease is very slow and may take a year or more.
For prevention, keep your skin and feet clean and dry. Do not share clothing, towels, hairbrushes, combs, headgear, or other personal care items.
Skin Diseases