Does Your Child Have Ringworm? What You Need to Know
If you have a child who participates in sports such as wrestling, running, football, soccer, or basketball, they are likely going to get some sort of ringworm at one point in their life. And although you may think ringworm is something that you can protect your child from ever getting, there are many contributing factors that can cause them to develop it all on their own. Read on to learn more about ringworm and how you can get rid of it if your child gets it.
What is Ringworm?
Ringworm is a fungal infection that is contagious and typically develops in warm, moist areas of the body such as the feet. Unfortunately, because ringworm is really contagious, it can be passed from person to person or from teammate to teammate in an instant. Common amongst wrestlers, ringworm in wrestlers typically is passed directly on the wrestling mat and manifests itself on the scalp. Also common amongst athletes who run a lot, ringworm will manifest itself as “athlete's foot” and is nurtured within a warm, sweaty sock or shoe.
What Are the Symptoms?
When you have a child, you know how easy it is for them to get sick either from their friends, classmates, or siblings. In order to detect any signs of ringworm, look for symptoms such as itchy, scaly, ring-shaped red patches on the skin, bald spots in their hair, or discolored, thickened toenails.
What Is Treatment?
Because ringworm is harbored in a warm, moist environment, when treating ringworm your goal is to dry up parts of the body, like the feet. In order to do so, you can use over-the-counter powders that are designed to absorb moisture and treat the ringworm. If your child’s ringworm hasn’t gone away with a simple over-the-counter powder, come in to Chevy Chase Dermatology and an anti-fungal cream or ointment can be prescribed to them.
Ringworm is an infection that can be beyond uncomfortable, and if left untreated will only get worse. If your child has ringworm and it isn’t going away by using over-the-counter remedies, contact Dr. Chevy Chase Dermatology today.
Category: Skin Conditions