The Correct Way of Treating Ringworm
Ringworm develops because of the fungi dermatophytes. Skin eruptions start when the fungi comes in contact with the nails, hair or skin. They feast on keratin, the protein that can be found in the skin, nails and hair; and is the reason why these areas get infected particularly the outside coating of the skin that is moist and warm. Similar to its symptoms is another skin infection called pityriasis rosea. If the ringworm was diagnosed as pityriasis rosea, this can lead to another skin problem known as tinea incognito. The latter is a tricky fungus development that shows no sign of the usual characteristics like an inflamed side.
There are other fungal infections that are directly related to ringworm. These are jock itch and athlete’s foot and normally manifest in adults. Although they are not the type of fungal infection that is serious, they can still be a bother as they give you distress and frustration if not attended to immediately. Just like in any other kind of disease, it is better to prevent the ringworm that pester you rather than treating ringworm. Thus, you need to take precautionary measures so as not to be inflicted by the virus.
Treating ringworm can be done two ways, by oral medications or by skin application. Over-the-counter antifungal creams, and lotions can be bought in your local pharmacy. These are applied twice daily on the affected spot until the symptoms are completely eradicated. It is also suggested by doctors that it must be used for seven days even after the symptoms have resolved. Ringworm that have emerged on the scalp are treated with oral drugs. Any skin abrasions must be left untouched. The popular topical treatments are terbinafine, tolnaftate, clotrimazole, miconazole and ketoconazole.
There are also some home remedies that can be used in treating ringworm. Slice a papaya fruit and rub it on the infected area. You can also dry the papaya seeds and make a paste out of them. The paste made from the papaya seeds is also efficient in eradicating ringworm. Another cure is the use of coconut oil which you also put on the affected spot.
In conclusion, treating ringworm can be done in various ways. You have a choice of the non-prescription drugs from your local pharmacy, over the internet or try one of the home remedies. Nonetheless, it is still a good thing to see a doctor in order for you to talk over with him your manner of treatment.
