Ringworm - It's Not Really a Worm! | SuPeRnOvA and SwEeTpAiN

Ringworm - It's Not Really a Worm!

Your child made the cross country track team and now you are noticing a couple round red marks on their skin. Before you panic and assume there is literally a worm living and breathing inside the skin, you should know that ringworm is simply a fungal infection. It gets its name because of its shape, but it is no more harmful than diaper rash or athlete's foot. Fungal infections are easily treated, as long as you understand what you are dealing with.

Understanding Ringworm

This fungus thrives in moist, warm areas, such as swimming pools, locker rooms, and skin folds. Active kids are prone to this fungal infection because they are sweating, and in an environment where they are close to others sweating, too. Ringworm is extremely contagious so sharing towels, sports gear, or clothing promotes spreading.

You should also know that it is not always in the shape of a ring. Sometimes, it just looks like a red rash. This is common between the fingers and toes.

Signs and Symptoms

· Skin - Ringworm generally starts as a scaly, red bump or patch. It gets itchy, starts to cause discomfort, and may develop into a circular pattern with bumpy borders.

· Scalp - It usually begins as a reddish pimple-like sore. It then gets scaly or crusty, and is often mistaken for dandruff. Then, it causes tenderness, redness, swelling, and even bald patches.

Treatment

You will want to make a doctor's appointment, but it does not hurt to start treating it right away with a natural remedy to help prevent it from spreading. It's also recommended to clean furniture and bedding. This is one of the reasons I love having bean bag chairs in the kids' rooms. You can find great ones from stores like SoothingCompany.com with removable and machine-washable covers, so the upkeep is a breeze. Below are a few natural treatment remedies:

· Garlic - Heat garlic so it is soft. Smash into paste, apply, and put a band aid over it while they sleep.

· Apple Cider Vinegar - Apply with a cotton ball several times per day.

· Tea Tree Oil - Dilute with water and apply with cotton balls.

· Colloidal Silver - Rub this natural antibiotic into the affected area twice a day.

· Aloe - If you have an aloe plant or pure aloe gel apply it until it disappears.

Prevention

Below are a few tips to share with your child to reduce their risk.

· Don't share towels, clothes, or sports gear.

· Wear sandals in public bathing areas and locker rooms.

· Shower and shampoo immediately after swimming in a public pool or participating in a skin-to-skin contact sport.

· Wear Clean Underwear and socks daily. Make sure they don't toss the ones you laid out in the laundry, so they could sneak and wear their favorites again!