Ringworms are a form of skin infection that is characterized by itchy, reddish and scaly rashes. Ringworms can develop at any part of the body but would always occur on top of skin surfaces. Ringworms do not invade the skin and do not affect the inner layers of the skin. The most common places where ringworms can develop are groin, feet, hands and upper thighs. Although the rashes may develop on other parts of the body, they are not common and even if they occur, they are known by other names.
What Are Ringworms?
Contrary to the nomenclature, ringworms are not caused by ringworm or any other kind of worms. Also, ringworms can form in the shape of rings but that is also not the case all the time. Ringworms can be small protrusions of rashes which can be as little as a pimple.
Ringworms are fungal infections. In other words, it is caused by fungus. There are quite a few types of fungi that can cause this condition. Usually, ringworms are contracted when someone comes in contact with the fungus from another person or animal that has been infected already. Ringworms are thus contagious and can spread from one person to another and infect quite rapidly.
How Ringworms Are Contracted
Direct human contact or getting into physical contact with animals may not be necessary to spread the infectious fungus. Coming in contact with items that have been used by infected people or animals and sharing the same environment in closed quarters can also spread the infection. The most common places where people contract ringworms are shower rooms, pools and gymnasiums.
The types of fungi that cause ringworms thrive in moist areas which lack proper ventilation and may be a tad more humid and hot. Thus, shower rooms, gyms and swimming pools are hotbeds of these fungi and the most common places where people get infected with the condition. Using towels or any items that have been used by people or animals that have ringworms can also lead to the spread of the fungus.
Ringworm Symptoms
Ringworms are itchy; they cause irritation and can be extremely painful in some cases. Ringworms do not normally spread randomly from one part of the body to another but not taking appropriate care can lead to a massive outbreak. Maintaining optimal hygiene, not recycling clothes and not touching the ringworms are some easy ways to prevent an outbreak. Medical intervention is desirable for apt handling and remedying of ringworms.
