Table of Contents
- Ringworm facts
- Is ringworm contagious?
- What does the term ringworm mean?
- What causes ringworm?
- What are the sources of skin fungi?
- What are risk factors for ringworm?
- What types of ringworm are there? What are ringworm symptoms and signs?
- Types of ringworm: tinea corporis and tinea cruris. What are the symptoms?
- Types of ringworm: tinea faciei and tinea manus. What are the symptoms?
- Types of ringworm: tinea pedis and tinea unguium. What are the symptoms?
- How is ringworm diagnosed?
- What is the treatment for ringworm? Are there home remedies?
- How can ringworm be prevented?
- What is the prognosis (outlook) for ringworm?
How can ringworm be prevented?
Conventional wisdom holds that minimizing sweat and moisture can help prevent fungal infections. Common recommendations along these lines are for men to wear boxer shorts, for women to avoid panty hose, and so forth. Whether these measures, some of which are quite difficult to implement, are really worth all of the effort is open to question.
You can also take steps to prevent spread of ringworm infections. Do not share clothing, towels, hairbrushes, combs, hair accessories, sports gear, or other personal-care items. Wearing sandals or shoes in gyms, locker rooms, and at pools can help reduce your chances of contracting athlete's foot. You should avoid touching pets that have signs of ringworm (typically bald spots). Wash hands after touching pets.
If your pet has ringworm, wear gloves and long sleeves when handling your pet, and vacuum often in areas of the home frequented by your pet. You can disinfect surfaces and bedding by using a solution of diluted chlorine bleach, benzalkonium chloride, or strong detergents. A veterinarian can treat your pet so that the infection can be eradicated.