Fungal Infection Ringworm

What do ringworms look like


Ringworms are a fungal infection that affects the outer layers of the skin. Ringworms can develop on any part of the skin like the head, body, and even in-between your toes. Ringworms typically appear as a red circular rash that is itchy in nature. It is more pronounced on the circumference, and displays healthy skin in the center. This makes it look like a red ring on the affected skin, and thus the name ‘ringworm’. Ringworms are classified into four different categories:
    
  • Tinea Corporis: This ringworm affects the body, and generally appears on an individual’s back, stomach or legs.
  • Tinea Pedis: This ringworm is generally referred to as athlete’s foot as it affects an individual’s feet, especially the moist areas in-between the toes.
  • Tinea Cruris: Also generally known as jock itch, this ringworm affects the skin on the genitals, buttocks, or the inner side of a patient’s thighs.
  • Tinea Capitis: Tinea Capitis or ringworm of the scalp affects the scalp of an infected individual, and causes hair loss in that region. This type of ringworms is most commonly noticed among children.
Ringworms are fungal infections that are caused by parasitic microorganisms. They are   dermatophytes that feed on the keratin tissues of the body. A ringworm infection is contagious and can spread form human to human, from animal to human, from soil to human, and from an object to a human. The symptoms of this condition would essentially depend on the type of ringworm affecting you. However, a reddish ring of rash and a corresponding itch are common symptoms in all types of ringworm infections. Home remedies are quite effective when it come to treating ringworms.

Since you have not mentioned any particular type of ringworm, here are some remedies that can be useful in treating ringworms that affect the groin area, as this is one of the most affected areas.
  • Apply an over the counter anti fungal cream. This will help in preventing the infection from spreading. You can also dust an antifungal powder on the affected area during the day.
  • For an effective home remedy you may apply tea tree oil on the affected area. However, make sure that you mix the tea tree oil with a carrier oil. Tea tree oil possesses very strong anti fungal qualities, but it can irritate the skin if it is undiluted and therefore you need to dilute it by mixing it with olive oil or any other carrier oil before applying it on the skin.
  • Remember to keep your groin area moisture free, as funguses thrive in a warm and moist area. You can ensure this by wearing cotton undergarments that absorb sweat and allow the skin to breathe.

answered by c


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