Ringorm Kat

Ringorm: Everything You Need to Know

What is Ringworm?

Ringworm, despite its name, is a fungal infection. It is also known as tinea and is a common infection that can affect the skin, scalp, or nails. It is caused by a group of fungi called dermatophytes.

Ringworm is not a worm. The name comes from the red, ring-shaped rash that it often causes on the skin.

How is Ringworm Spread?

Ringworm is spread through contact with infected people, animals, or objects. You can get ringworm by touching an infected person or animal, or by touching an object that has been contaminated with the fungus.

Ringworm is not a serious infection, but it can be uncomfortable and itchy. It is important to treat ringworm to prevent it from spreading to other parts of the body or to other people.

Symptoms of Ringworm

• Red, itchy, ring-shaped rash on the skin
• Bald patches on the scalp
• Thick, discolored nails

Ringworm can affect any part of the body, but it is most common on the:

• scalp (tinea capitis)
• body (tinea corporis)
• feet (tinea pedis, also known as athlete's foot)
• groin (tinea cruris, also known as jock itch)
• nails (tinea unguium)

Treatment for Ringworm?

Ringworm is usually treated with antifungal medications. These medications can be applied to the skin, taken by mouth, or both. Antifungal medications work by killing the fungus that causes ringworm.

In most cases, ringworm can be treated with over-the-counter antifungal medications. However, if the infection is severe or does not respond to over-the-counter medications, a doctor may prescribe stronger antifungal medications.

How to Prevent Ringworm

There are a number of things you can do to prevent ringworm, including:

• Wash your hands thoroughly and often with soap and water.
• Avoid touching infected people or animals.
• Do not share personal items, such as clothing, towels, or combs, with someone who has ringworm.
• Keep your skin clean and dry.
• Wear shoes in public showers and locker rooms.