Ringworm in children is becoming more and more frequent these days because it is spread so easily. Children can get it from each other, from pets and from sharing personal items such as combs, brushes, towels or clothing. Because ringworm is contagious even before a child shows symptoms it can be extremely difficult to prevent in most cases.
Ringworm is a broader term used when describing many extremely contagious fungal infections, which are commonly referred to as Tinea. The most commonly areas affected on children are the body, scalp, feet, nails and groin. Like all other fungi, ringworm flourishes in moist, warm areas on the body. You might actually be surprised by the number of children that are affected by ringworm.
Contagion and Infection Risks
More often than not children become infected with ringworm from contact with other children, but that isn’t always the case. Since the condition is extremely contagious other members of the family can pass ringworm to the children because of the close contact that families have with one another. Often it is hard to distinguish the type of skin rash found on your kid.
Every part of the body that is affected will show a different type of symptom. Ringworm that is found on a child’s feet is very common and the skin will itch and begin to crack between the toes. When a child scratches, then the condition is easier to spread to other parts of the body or to others.
Ringworm and Kids
One of the most common types of ringworm in children is on the scalp (Tinea Capitis). This condition can be spread quickly and easily among children who are in school or a day care center. It will normally start as nothing more than a small bump on the head, but the size of it will increase and cause the hair to become brittle and might even cause bald spots on the scalp.
Because children play so closely together, it is hard to stop ringworm from occurring among them. It is important that you let children know that they shouldn’t share their combs, brushes or towels with other children when you know that ringworm is a problem. Tell your children why they need to be so careful and explain to them the dangers of ringworm.
Children also are in close contact with family pets so their chances of contracting ringworm are greater. It seems like an “innocent” situation, but you should have your pets tested for ringworm and if discovered, have your pets treated immediately and keep them away from your children.
Once you know that your child has become infected with ringworm, you should immediately begin treatment on them. You can purchase over the counter medications at your drugstore or you can visit your doctor for a prescription medication. After treatment begins, you should see results in about 2 weeks, but the treatment should be continued for at least 4 weeks to make sure the ringworm does not come back.
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