Despite its name ringworm in humans and animals is not caused by worms, or for that matter, any kind of animal. Ringworm is actually a fungus. And it does not discriminate between humans and animals. Both are equally likely to catch it. Ringworm derives its name from the shape of the rash itself, which looks like a reddish circle, or ring on the surface of the skin.

Human ringworm looks like a red round rash. In the middle of the infection the skin is often normal looking, thereby giving the rash a ring-like appearance. That’s where the name comes from (at least the ring part of the name). The outer part of the rash is generally somewhat raised and may appear crusty. Ringworm can affect any part of the body. Often the scalp becomes infected. Ringworm on the scalp may look like ringworm on the body, with the round circular shape. It may also show up as a small pimple on the scalp that grows in size over time.

Scalp ringworm is most easily seen through the patches of temporary baldness. The hair becomes infected and brittle then breaks off. Ringworm can also be seen on people’s feet and is known as athlete’s foot. Athlete’s foot does not show up with the same red ring rashes and it is easy to treat with over the counter medication. Ringworm is highly contagious and can be spread further throughout the body by scratching and contact with infested bedding or clothing.

Direct contact is generally the most effective way ringworm is passed between humans. Animal to human contact is another way to contract it. Direct contact with infected soil is still another way to catch ringworm, though this is the least likely method. With a 10 day incubation period before any signs of the rash occur, ringworm can be passed between people who have not yet shown any signs of the infection. A doctor’s diagnosis is probably the most effective way to cure the fungus (though not necessarily the cheapest). That way the exact type of ringworm fungus can determined and the proper medication can be prescribed. Anti-fungal creams generally seem to be the most common form of treatment.

Although the fungus like moisture, it is still smart to keep the infection covered with a bandage. This helps prevent the possible spread to other people and objects. One of the most important points in clearing up your ringworm is to make sure to stay diligent in your treatment of the infection until it is completely gone. Failure to completely follow through with treatments to the end is why ringworm often reappears. Frequently wash all clothing and any objects that may have been contaminated by the fungus. Bleach and hot water work best. Also try and minimize all contact with other people and animals until the rash is gone.

The most effective way that ringworm is spread to other parts of your body is through scratching. If you scratch your rash you can then touch or scratch another part of your body spreading the fungus. The ringworm rash is not painful but it is arguably one of the itchiest things you can get on your body. The itchiness will subside through treatment but you have to be strong until then. Even with treatment the itchiness will be at its highest between the third and fifth day that the rash is visible. After that the symptoms will begin to subside.

Ringworm is an irritating fungus. Once you get it you must stay diligent in your treatment efforts to the very end, even when it appears the fungus is gone. Remember it can remain dormant away from the body and then can start growing again once contact is made with the skin. You don’t want to go through multiple treatments of the ringworm infection. Do your treatment correctly the first time so that it never comes back.

Ringworm in humans can be extremely difficult to cure. For additional information on curing your ringworm now visit http://RingwormRemedy.slhost3.com. Browse the site and then sign up for your free “10 Steps to Curing Ringworm” email mini-course.

Related posts:

  1. Instructions On Preventing And Treating An Outbreak Of Ringworm
  2. Treating Your Dog for Ringworm
  3. Transfer Factors And The Immune Response in Humans and Animals
  4. How To Treat Dog Skin Rashes
  5. Worm Loving Dogs: Learn How To Rid Your Dog Of These Worms

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