What happens if you get ringworm on your scalp?
In some cases, ringworm of the scalp causes kerion — a severe, painful inflammation of the scalp. Kerion appears as soft, raised swellings that drain pus and cause thick, yellow crusting on the scalp.
Do ringworm damage your hair?
If it develops on the scalp, it can cause patches of hair loss and is known to doctors as “tinea capitis.” Ringworm is the same thing as athlete’s foot, and the same kind of fungal infection that can affect the nails too.
Does ringworm cause brain damage?
Some people develop deep infections with these types of fungi. Instead of affecting the skin, the fungi infect deep body tissues, including the liver or the brain. These deep fungal infections most commonly occur in people who have weakened immune systems and can be fatal.
What kills ringworm on scalp?
Antifungal medications that can be taken by mouth are used to treat ringworm of the scalp. The medications most commonly prescribed include griseofulvin (Gris-Peg) and terbinafine (Lamisil). Your child might need to take one of these medications for six weeks or more.
Will ringworm on scalp go away by itself?
Ringworm of the scalp won’t go away on its own. It will keep spreading to more of the scalp. It can be cured with prescription medicines. It can be treated at home.
Is ringworm and tinea the same?
Ringworm is a common infection of the skin and nails that is caused by fungus. The infection is called “ringworm” because it can cause an itchy, red, circular rash. Ringworm is also called “tinea” or “dermatophytosis.” The different types of ringworm are usually named for the location of the infection on the body.
Can Aspergillus affect the brain?
Systemic infection. The most serious complication of invasive aspergillosis is the spread of the infection to other parts of your body, especially your brain, heart and kidneys. Invasive aspergillosis spreads rapidly and may be fatal.
What is the fastest way to treat ringworm on the scalp?
Over-the-counter antifungals can kill the fungus and promote healing. Effective medications include miconazole (Cruex), clotrimazole (Desenex) and terbinafine (Lamisil). After cleaning the rash, apply a thin layer of antifungal medication to the affected area 2 to 3 times per day or as directed by the package.
What is the best over the counter medicine for ringworm?
Clotrimazole is a popular antifungal medication available over-the-counter, which is effective in treating ringworm. Clotrimazole works against the growing fungi and slowly clears up the infection. Applying it over the skin, twice a day, should provide relief from ringworm.
What causes ringworm in the head?
Ringworm is caused by a dermatophyte fungus. The majority of the fungi that inhabit and infect the human scalp are Trichophyton and Microsporum classified according to the route of transmission.
What are the first signs of ringworm?
Most ringworm infections cause a rash that may be peeling, cracking, scaling, itching, and red. Sometimes the rash forms blisters, especially on the feet. Symptoms of ringworm of the body include a rash: On the chest, stomach, arms, legs, or back. With edges that are red and scaly or moist and crusted.
How can ringworm be treated?
Most of the time, ringworm (tinea) can be successfully treated with an over-the-counter (OTC) or prescription cream, ointment, or other medication that’s applied directly to the rash. In some cases a systemic drug—one that is taken by mouth—is necessary.