Ringworm Treatment

It's not difficult to recognize ringworm. This skin infection is characterized by a red, itchy rash that often produces a scaly, crusty appearance. While the initial infection may be treated with an over-the-counter cream, recurrent outbreaks or more serious cases may require prescription medication. Here we'll explore some of the most common ringworm treatments and their associated side effects.

 

What is Ringworm and how do you know it?

Ringworm is a common fungal skin infection that causes a red, itchy rash. It's also known as tinea or dermatophytosis. Ringworm can affect any part of the body, but it most commonly affects the scalp, face, chest, and legs.

You may have ringworm if you have a red, itchy, scaly rash that:

• Begins as a small red dot and expands outward in a ring shape
     
• Is often itchy and uncomfortable
     
• May blister or ooze
     
• It May have raised edges that look like worms (this is why it's called "ringworm")
   

If you think you may have ringworm, it's important to see your doctor so they can diagnose the infection and prescribe the appropriate treatment.

 

The different types of treatments available for ringworm.

There are a few different types of treatments available for ringworm, depending on the severity of the infection. For milder cases, over-the-counter antifungal creams or lotions can be effective in treating the infection. These products are typically applied to the affected area two to three times per day for four weeks. If the infection does not improve after four weeks, or if it is severe, a prescription antifungal medication may be necessary. In more severe cases, oral antifungal medications may be prescribed.

These treatments typically last for several weeks and may need to be taken for months to completely clear the infection. It is important to finish the entire course of treatment, even if the symptoms go away, to make sure that the infection is completely gone. If ringworm is not treated properly, it can recur or become more difficult to treat. In very rare cases, ringworm can lead to serious complications such as skin infections or problems with the nails. If you think you may have ringworm, it is important to see a doctor so that the proper treatment can be started.

 

How to use each type of treatment?

Over-the-counter antifungal creams can be applied to the affected area two to three times per day for four weeks. If the infection does not improve after four weeks, or if it is severe, a prescription antifungal medication may be necessary. In more severe cases, oral antifungal medications may be prescribed. These treatments typically last for several weeks and may need to be taken for months to completely clear the infection. It is important to finish the entire course of treatment, even if the symptoms go away, to make sure that the infection is completely gone. If ringworm is not treated properly, it can recur or become more difficult to treat. In very rare cases, ringworm can lead to serious complications such as skin infections or problems with the nails. If you think you may have ringworm, it is important to see a doctor so that the proper treatment can be started.

 

What to expect after treatment?

Ringworm is a curable condition, and most people will see improvement after treatment. However, it may take several weeks or longer for the rash to completely go away. In some cases, the skin may remain discoloured after the rash has resolved. Ringworm is not contagious once the rash has begun to heal. However, it can spread to other areas of the body or other people before treatment begins. Be sure to follow your doctor's instructions for completing the full course of treatment. You may need to apply the medication for several weeks, even after the rash has disappeared.

It is important to understand that ringworm is a condition that can recur, especially if it is not treated fully the first time. Be sure to contact your doctor if the rash reappears after treatment.

What are the possible side effects of treatment?
   

The most common side effect of antifungal medications is skin irritation. This can include redness, itching, or burning. If you experience severe skin irritation, stop using the medication and contact your doctor.

Other possible side effects of antifungal medications include:

• Nausea
     
• Vomiting
     
• Diarrhoea
     
• Headache
     
• Dizziness
     
• Allergic reaction (rare)
   

Side effects will vary depending on the specific medication you are using. Be sure to talk to your doctor about any possible side effects before starting treatment.

 

How to prevent ringworm from spreading?

There are several things you can do to prevent ringworm from spreading:

• Wash your hands regularly, especially after touching your skin or coming into contact with someone who has ringworm.
     
• Avoid sharing personal items, such as towels, clothing, and bedding, with others.
     
• Keep your skin clean and dry.
     
• Wear sandals or other open-toe shoes to help keep your feet dry and free from moisture.
     
• Avoid sharing hats, brushes, or other items that come into contact with your hair.
     
• If you have ringworm, avoid touching other people or animals. If you must touch them, be sure to wash your hands afterwards.
     
• Stay away from swimming pools, hot tubs, or other communal areas while you have ringworm.
     
• Talk to your doctor about taking antifungal medication to prevent ringworm from spreading to others.
   

By following these tips, you can help prevent ringworm from spreading to others and reduce your risk of re-infection.