Ringworm, despite its name is not a worm and has nothing to do with worms. It is in fact a fungal infection. The reason for its name is due to what it looks like. That is, it appears as a round circle or ring on the skin of the patient.

It is caused by organisms called dermatophytes, ringworm can infect the skin, hair, nails and feet. You will know that you have ringworm of the skin if you develop a rash that looks red and patchy then develops into multiple red rings that may be scaly or itchy.

Although ringworm of the hands, feet, crotch and armpits are generally referred to as ringworm of the body, they should actually be considered as distinctive subtypes and discussed separately, as their characteristics greatly differ from those of ringworm of the body.

There are several types of ringworm. You can have ringworm of the scalp (tinea capitis), body (tinea corporis), nails (tinea unguium), feet (commonly known as athlete's feet) and crotch or groin (called jock itch).

Ringworm, despite it's name, is not caused by worms. It is an infection caused by mold-like fungi known as dermatophytes. It is contagious and can be spread through direct skin contact with an infected person, an infected pet, or an infected object or surface.

Ringworm could be easily transmitted through skin to skin contact and contaminated items such as hairbrushes, slippers, shoes and socks. Ringworm does not only exist in humans but is also a very common disease among domestic animals like dogs, cats and farm animals.

People who acquire ringworm can be carriers for the fungal organisms without showing any symptoms of disease. The infection may occur only if the persons who have contracted the infectious fungal elements present skin lesions, scratches or irritation.

Ringworm can be avoided if you keep your skin dry and healthy. Do not come in direct physical touch of people or animals suffering fungal skin infections. You can keep the causes of ringworm at bay by regularly airing your locker and keeping your skin covered from constant dampness.

The most effective ringworm medications contain fungicidal materials. Fungicidal ringworm medications are aimed at killing the fungal organisms and their spores. Fungicidal ringworm medications are far better than most fungistats, which usually just stop the fungi from reproducing, instead of eradicating the infection.

As ringworm is caused by a fungal infection, it can be eradicated by using an appropriate fungicide. As skin types vary, and as the exact nature of the infecting fungal organisms may vary depending on a number of factors, including geographical location.

Herbal remedies may actually be more effective. Tea tree oil, in an 8-20% cream, rubbed on the skin three times a day may stop the progression of ringworm into the hair follicle.

Two of the most common are terbinafine (Lamisil) in pill form and itraconazole (Sporanox). Antifungal oral medications have a very high cure rate and often offer relief from itching and rashes within 1 to 3 days after the first dose.

Keep in mind that any type of ringworm is highly contagious. Don't share utensils, combs, hats or towels with others. Try to avoid scratching the area as this can make it spread and make things worse.

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