Ringworm in Humans

Ringworm is a fungal infection of the skin of humans, which also affects animals. Ringworm affects the top layer of the skin and feeds on the keratin. It has been observed that this fungal infection mostly affects warm, moist skin. Ringworm in humans is characterized by circular rashes, which is red in color and itchy. A group of fungi called 'dermatophytes', is responsible for human ringworm infection, which is caused by direct skin-to-skin contact with the infected person or contaminated items like clothes, shoes, towels, bed linen, brushes, combs etc. This contagious fungal infection can be contracted from the soil or from infected pets, like cats and dogs.

Types of Ringworm in Humans

These dermatophytes affect various parts of the body to cause different types of ringworm infections. Ringworm infections can affect the scalp, body, foot and nails. A ringworm infection of the body is called 'tinea corporis'. Scalp ringworm infection is known as 'tinea capitis', which is most commonly found in kids as red, itchy patches, which are sometimes bald. Ringworm infection in the bearded area of the face and the neck is termed as 'tinea barbae', whereas in other parts of the face, it called 'tinea faciei', which may not display a ring-like pattern. If it is in the hands, particularly on the palms and the area between the fingers, it is known as 'tinea manus'. 'Jock itch' or 'tinea cruris' is the ringworm infection, which affects the genitals, buttocks and upper thighs. If the nails are infected with ringworm, the condition is called 'tinea unguium'. Ringworm infection of the foot (tinea pedis), is commonly known as 'athlete's foot' and affects the moist areas on the foot, especially between the toes.

Ringworm in Humans - Symptoms

Even though the ring-like pattern is considered as the characteristic symptom of ringworm infection, it is not necessary that the same happens to everyone. Such rashes may not appear in case of a ringworm infection in the foot and nails. This fungal infection on the skin usually starts with a pimple-like bump or a small patch. Gradually, it may develop to form a ring-like pattern or a series of rings. It can be itchy and reddish in color. The borders of the rings may be raised to encircle a scaly central patch. The rings may not develop in everyone affected with ringworm. In case of a foot infection, the affected skin, usually between the toes, becomes patchy and begins to harden and crack. Scalp ringworm infection starts with a simple bump or patch, which can grow with time. The skin of the area becomes patchy, flaky and itchy, causing hair fall in some people. The area looks swollen, reddish and tender. There may be crusty areas, which are yellow in color. The nails infected with ringworm harden and becomes thick and brittle. It can get discolored and begin cracking and may get destroyed in the long run.

Ringworm in Humans - Treatment and Prevention

Mild cases of human ringworm infection are often treated with the topical application of anti-fungal medications. For severe infections and scalp ringworm infections, oral medicines are also prescribed. In some cases, antibiotics are also administered to treat related bacterial infections. In the case of ringworm in cats or dogs, it is very important to treat them at the earliest. You have to restrain from touching pets with bald spots on their skin. In order to prevent ringworm in humans, abstain from sharing clothes, bed, towels, hats, hairbrushes and such personal items. Shampoo your hair on a regular basis, especially after a haircut from a beauty salon. Don't walk barefoot on soil, especially in common places like gyms, schools, etc. Above all, personal hygiene is the most important factor as far as preventing ringworm infection is concerned.