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Scalp ringworm is a fungal infection that affects the hair shafts. Ringworms appear to have flat centers and raised borders. It causes scaly and patchy skin. Ringworm is a contagious infection that can spread from person to person.
Sharing combs, pillows, hats, and towels are the typical ways of spreading the infection. Ringworms are typical in children but, they can also infect a person at any age.
What Causes ringworm?
A Scalp Ringworm is not a worm but a fungal infection. It is caused by fungi called Dermatophytes. This infection prefers on moist surfaces of the body. Overcrowding and poor hygiene increase the spread of ringworm.
Symptoms of Scalp Ringworm
- Brittle hair
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Lo-grade fever
- Painful scalp
- Swelling
- Drain pus
- Bald spots
- Scarring
Seek medical help if symptoms include:
- Severe round patches and scaly skin
- Patches that slowly expand or enlarge
- Reddened, scaly, and gray areas
- Patches that contains dark dots in the hair
- Fragile and brittle hair that easily pulled out
- Painful areas of the scalp
Methods of Transmission of Scalp Ringworm
- Person to person. It often spreads through direct skin-to-skin contact of the infected person.
- Object to human. It can spread through contact with objects or surfaces when touching on infected surfaces. It includes towels, clothing, bed linens, and combs.
- Animal to human. Dogs and cats are typical carriers of ringworm. Ensure to disinfect after grooming your pet to prevent the spread of the infection.
What are the Risk Factors of Scalp Ringworm?
- Exposure to other children. Outbreaks are typical in child care centers and schools. The infection spread through physical contact.
- Age. Ringworm of the scalp is typical in school-aged children and toddlers.
How to Diagnose Scalp Ringworm?
Your doctor will look at your symptoms and assess your medical history. Visual examination will determine other condition that causes scalp-based ringworm. Your doctor will also take skin samples of the affected area to determine the type of fungi and confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment for Scalp Ringworm
After diagnosis, your doctor may recommend antifungal medications that can be taken by mouth to treat the infection. Your doctor may also recommend shampoo to reduce the effects of the infection. Beauty and skincare products are also available to alleviate your condition.
How to Prevent Scalp Ringworm?
- Educate yourself and others to maintain proper hygiene and sanitation.
- Use shampoo regularly and keep clean
- Avoid infected animals. Wash your hands often to avoid the spread of the infection.
- Avoid sharing personal items
