Scalp Ringworm Treatment
Scalp Ringworm Treatment
Scalp ringworm is a type of fungal infection characterized by red inflamed patches on the scalp. Children are mostly affected by this disease. To find out more about scalp ringworm treatment, in order to prevent this disease, read on…
Ringworm of the scalp is a common problem among children in the age group 4 to 14 years, though adults can also be affected by this condition. It is also known as scalp ringworm or tinea capitis, and the microorganism responsible for causing this infection is called ‘dermatophyte’, which is a type of fungi. The scalp, eyebrows, and eyelashes are the most commonly affected areas by this fungal infection. Along with children, patients of diabetes, AIDS, and cancer are also more vulnerable to this disease, as this diseases weakens the immune system.
Causes and Symptoms of Scalp Ringworm
Ringworm of the scalp, caused by the fungi dermatophyte, generally spreads from an infected person or from contaminated objects like combs, hairbrushes, clothing etc. used by that person. The fungus that causes scalp ringworm is also found in many animals, including dogs, cats, pigs and horses. Sometimes, the symptoms of ringworm infection may not be present in animals and pets, but they can act as the carrier of the disease. Usually, the fungus penetrates the skin through minor scratches or cuts. In rare cases, the fungus can spread from soil and infect a person.
The common symptoms of this fungal infection are the appearance of scaly, red and inflamed patches on the scalp. As the fungus attacks the hair shaft, it causes the hair follicles to break off. Gradually, the infection results in bald patches on the scalp, which if remain untreated can expand and enlarge. In severe cases, scalp ringworm can cause kerion, which appears as a soft and large pus filled lump that eventually causes yellow crusting on the scalp. Kerion can also result in permanent loss of hair on the affected area. Scalp ringworm can affect the lymph nodes of the body, especially in the neck, back of the scalp, and the regions behind the ears.
Scalp Ringworm Treatment
Both topical and oral anti-fungal medications are used in the cure for ringworm. Topical creams and lotions used for the purpose will be effective in case of a superficial infection. But if the fungus has already penetrated deeper into the hair follicles, then these topical ointments would not be very effective in containing the growth of the fungus, as they cannot penetrate the hair follicles.
However, oral anti-fungal medications are suitable for scalp ringworm treatment even in situations where topical ointments fail to cure. The most commonly used drug in the treatment for scalp ringworm is Griseofulvin, which has been in use since 1958. Apart from Griseofulvin, Terbinafine, Itraconazole, and Fluconazole are some other medicines used for the treatment of scalp ringworm. For treating inflammatory scalp ringworm, Prednisone is often recommended by many physicians.
Along with medications, use of medicated shampoos can provide relief by inhibiting fungal growth. Physicians generally recommend shampoos that contain selenium sulfide and zinc pyrithione. For better results, the medicated shampoo should be used twice or thrice in a week and it should be left for 3 to 5 minutes on the scalp before rinsing with clean water.
Certain home remedies can also prove beneficial in treating scalp ringworm. A paste of mustard or butea seeds applied on the affected skin can be quite helpful in preventing the spread of the disease. Some other common, yet effective home remedies include, papaya, leaves of cassia and holy basil, and turmeric.
In addition to proper scalp ringworm treatment, it is better to teach young children about some basic lessons on personal hygiene and the ringworm precautions to be followed, as they are the ones commonly affected by this disease. Educating them about this contagious disease, how it spreads from person to person, and what are ways to prevent its spread will go a long way in helping to contain this disease. They should avoid contact with infected people or pets, and not to share objects like combs, hats or hairbrushes with their friends. Another important point to keep in mind is that humid and dark, confined places with poor ventilation facilities should be avoided by the people affected by scalp ringworm. This is because these conditions are favorable for fungal growth and can further aggravate the disease.
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By Chandramita Bora Published: 8/10/2009 |
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