What it is?
Ringworm is a contagious skin disease that is caused by fungi. Affects skin, hair, and sometimes nails. This is the most common fungal disease among children. Fungal infections are caused by minor skin lesions and immune disorders.
Why does this happen?
The disease is transmitted from sick people and animals or through household items.
What's happening?
From the moment the fungus hits a person’s skin, hair, and nails until the first signs of the disease appear, it usually takes from 5 to 15 days. Inflammatory spots, small nodules and blisters covered with scales and crusts appear on the skin. Usually, patients are not bothered by anything other than mild itching.
Large, rounded areas of baldness form on the scalp. All the hair is broken off at a level of 4-8 mm and it seems as if it has been trimmed by lichen.
Sometimes, in people with weakened immune systems and untreated, the disease can become more complicated. At the same time, the temperature may rise, the lymph nodes may enlarge, and the rashes may fester.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of ringworm is made by a dermatologist during examination. To confirm the diagnosis, several pieces of skin may be removed from the site for examination under a microscope.
Treatment
Modern remedies completely cure ringworm, so if you suspect ringworm, you should consult a doctor who will prescribe a course of tablets and ointments to completely destroy the fungus.
The patient must be isolated until cured. Persons in contact with him should be periodically examined to see if they have become infected. With modern treatment, there is no need to shave your head or remove hair.
Prevention
To prevent ringworm, you should avoid contact with stray animals and regularly have your pets examined by a veterinarian. Those who are sick must strictly observe the rules of personal hygiene.