Despite the name, ringworm is not caused by worms. We now know ringworm as a fungus. The infectious disease is caused by a mold like fungus known as dermatophytes. Damp places are known to be an area of ​​transmission and also have direct contact with infected animals or humans by sharing personal items such as combs, clothing or by touching the infected area.

Ringworm can be spread by humans or animals such as dogs or sheep. It can spread from animals to humans, from humans to humans, or from humans to animals. Ringworm is not as big a problem as it used to be due to advances in technology and medicine. However, outbreaks do happen and they can be devastating. For example, recently an animal shelter in Canada was affected by a severe case of ringworm and almost all of the animals had to be euthanized so that the disease would not spread.

Common symptoms of ringworm are itching, burning dryness, or circular scaly rashes on the skin. In animals, the symptoms are a bit different and consist of hair loss in the affected area, itching and itching in a specific part of the body. Most often, the hair loss is in circular patches. These patches may also be irregular in shape.

Ringworm can be misdiagnosed because its symptoms are similar to nummular eczema and pythiasis rosea. People can get ringworm at different times in their lives. For example, ringworm of the foot is not common in children and is more common in adults. The most common type of ringworm in children is ringworm of the scalp which can come from outbreaks at school or daycare centers. Problems with the treatment of ringworm of the scalp are due to the resistance of ringworm to treatment.

Antifungal cream is most often the treatment for adults. Ringworm creams include terbinafine hydrochloride, which disrupts the fungus’s ability to produce ergosterol. Which is the main component of the cell membranes of fungi. The drugs target this part of the fungus and will eventually destroy it.

Coming in contact with someone who has ringworm can happen and you should clean yourself properly. Ringworm is contagious. Although, if you have already contracted ringworm, try not to scratch the infected area. Doing so can cause ringworm to spread to other areas of the body. Over-the-counter products may not get rid of ringworm, so you should see your GP as soon as possible.