Ringworm and Fungal Infections

Contrary to the name, Ringworm has nothing to do with a worm. Although it may sound scary to hear those words and think that there is a worm in your body, this is not the case. Ringworm is a fungal infection that is super contagious and very painful.

Interestingly, Ringworm and other fungal infections are closely related to athletes’ food. However, there are also vast differences between the two. While the appearance of Ringworm is striking, there is nothing to fear! This condition is very common and can be treated easily. It is not life-threatening, and you can still live a nice life if you develop Ringworm.

Causes of Ringworm and Fungal Infections

The only way to develop Ringworm and other fungal infections is to get infections from someone or something with the infection. Unlike a viral infection, fungal infections enter open wounds or direct places like your nose, mouth, and ears. It is also very hard to detect Ringworms and other fungal infections on hard surfaces and people as they do not have a lot of visible signs.

The main causes include:

• Human to Human Contact
• Animal to Human Contact
• Object to Human Contact

Symptoms of Fungal Infections

It is hard to miss the very visible symptoms that occur because of Ringworm and other fungal infections. The area with the infection develops a large red circle that is slightly raised above the skin. The red circle looks like a worm, which may be why it has that name.

You can have more than one red worm-like mark on your body. They can also interact and intertwine with each other. Other symptoms of Ringworm and other fungal infections include:

• Ring of red around rash
• Itchy
• Scaly skin
• Redness
• Overall Warmth
• Painful
• Overlapping rings

How to Diagnose RIngworm and Fungal Infections

Ringworm and other fungal infections are easy to spot! Rarely does anyone with the red marks on their bodies need to go to the doctor for a diagnosis? However, if the spot persists, does not go away, or is severely painful you should consult your doctor.

If you decide to go to the doctor, they can diagnose you very quickly! Ringworm fungal infections are one of the only medical conditions that create a red ring in its infected hosts. It only takes a few moments for your doctor to view the marks and make their decision. The quicker it is the better as you can start focusing on a solution or treatment for fungal infections.

Treatment Options

Usually, fungal infections, including Ringworm, go away on their own. It is rare that an individual will need to use medication to get rid of the marks and the symptoms. Although this is true, there are some people who use over-the-counter antifungal creams for rashes.

The creams work by drying out the area, which kills any fungal infections residing on top of your skin. You should only look for over-the-counter options that are safe for your skin and produce smoothness, as opposed to dryness.

If your condition worsens, you may need to call your doctor again. If they notice that the symptoms are not decreasing, they can prescribe you a prescription antifungal medication. This is a rare occurrence, though; it is easier to manage this condition.

Managing Fungal Infections

Managing fungal infections is surprisingly easy and quick. Since these infections do not stay for long and go away on their own, there is not much to manage. However, patients with fungal infections need to follow a few steps, so their condition does not worsen. Although fungal infections like Ringworm are relatively safe, they can still cause health problems if they spread or worsen.

Patients should keep the ring around their arms or legs dry to manage this condition. If it is wet, more bacteria can breed, causing another infection. While it is hard to do so, patients with fungal infections also need to ensure that they don’t scratch at their arms.

It is tempting to itch your arm when it is itchy and scaly; however, this can actually worsen and hinder the healing process. The itchiness is uncomfortable and can introduce new bacteria that hides in our fingertips.

Spreading Ringworm is uncomfortable, but you can manage to not spread it around by following these few suggestions:

• Not sharing towels or blankets
• Wearing shoes inside
• Staying away from other healthy people

How Can I Prevent Fungal Infections?

The best way to handle fungal infections, however, is to prevent them from happening. It is not always possible to prevent this super contagious fungal infection, but there are some measures you can take. For example, since fungal infections live in humid areas and can attach themselves to objects, humans, and animals, you should avoid physical contact during the summer months.

You should also disinfect new spaces with wipes before placing anything down. Phones and counters have a lot of bacteria. It is possible to accidentally place our hands-on dirty sources with fungal infections and touch our faces, spreading the infection further.

Another way to prevent Ringworm is to always wear shoes but keep them dry! The most common place to develop fungal infections is the feet. This is because they are usually trapped in warm and humid shoes that can cause fungal infections.

Also, experts do not recommend walking barefoot in public spaces, especially ones that are wet. For example, you should avoid using a gym shower as there is no way of knowing if there is a fungal infection underneath your feet. Instead, purchase water shoes and walk around with protection.

Living with Ringworms and Fungal Infections

Ringworm and other fungal infections can be dangerous! However, most of the time they are in their earliest stages of development and go away on their own. In some instances, you do not need to take medication to get rid of the fungal infection if it does not go away within two weeks.

The only way to treat Ringworm is to let the infection run its course through your body. While it may be uncomfortable, it works really well! Drink lots of fluid, keep the red ring dry, and rest!

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FAQ

1. What antifungals can I use for Ringworms? Allgemeines, Azoles, and Griseofulvin, however, you should always consult your doctor before using any medication of creams.
2. Will my ringworms go away? Yes. Ringworms will disappear if you receive effective treatment.

Healthier Me Today is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Never ignore professional medical advice in seeking treatment, always consult with your healthcare professional. Stay healthy!