Questions and Answers: Ringworm
Feature, Health — By Ingrid on July 31, 2009 at 7:59 am
Questions and Answers about Ringworm
What is it?
Ringworm is a very common skin infection in children. Despite it’s name, it is not actually a worm at all but a fungal infection.
Where does it usually appear?
Ringworm can occur on the scalp, the palms of the hands and between fingers, feet, face, groin, or other areas of the body.
How is it spread?
Ringworm is contagious via skin-to-skin contact, which is why it can spread so easily between young children. It can also spread on wet surfaces or by shared clothing.
What are the symptoms?
As the name suggests, it often appears as a ring-shaped rash. It may be very itchy and red.
On the scalp it might resemble dry skin or dandruff. On the hands and feet it may appear scaly (athlete’s foot) and skin may be thickened.
What treatment is available?
Ringworm can sometimes be treated with over the counter creams, but a visit with the doctor to make sure of the diagnosis can be important. In some cases a prescription might be given.
Can Ringworm be prevented?
The chance of spreading Ringworm can be decreased by keeping the body cool and dry, not sharing clothing or hair brushes, and not going barefoot in places that commonly have wet surfaces, such as public showers and pools.
Where can I learn more about Ringworm?
Ingrid is a writer who is active also active on www.frua.org
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