Treatment for Scalp Ringworm

Scalp ringworm is a fungal infection, caused due to dermatophytes. If you are suffering from scalp ringworm, here's some help. Read on to know more about the treatment for scalp ringworm.

Scalp ringworm or tinea capitis is a fungal infection of the scalp, often characterized by red, itchy and bald patches on the scalp. The fungi that causes scalp ringworm are commonly known as dermatophytes. Sometimes the fungal infection is also observed in the eyebrows and eyelashes. Is ringworm contagious? A healthy person contracts this fungal infection, if he comes in direct contact with an infected person. The scalp ringworm fungus can also spread from contaminated objects like combs, towels and pillows. In some cases, infected animals like cats and dogs can also spread the fungal infection.

Ringworm on the scalp is most frequently observed in children, though it can affect people of any age. Scalp ringworm, mostly occurs in children aged 3-14 years. Children having weak immune system or those suffering from diabetes, cancer or HIV/AIDS are most likely to be affected. In the United States around 4-10 percent of the population is affected by scalp ringworm every year.

Symptoms of Scalp Ringworm

Scalp ringworm is always accompanied by severe hair loss. The most common symptoms are pain, itching, reddening and scaling of the scalp, and enlarged lymph nodes in the neck and behind the ears. Sometimes, pus filled pustules may also appear. Another symptom of ringworm of the scalp is the formation of kerion. It is a large pus filled lump, covered with pustules and it oozes fluid. This infection can lead to permanent hair loss and scarring, if not treated immediately. However, there are some effective treatment for scalp ringworm, which helps in curing the infection.

Scalp Ringworm Home Remedies

You can prevent the spread of scalp ringworm, with the help of some easy home remedies. Apply warm coconut oil on the scalp everyday. It reduces itching. A mixture of almond oil and Castor oil is also effective for the treatment of scalp ringworm. Some raw vegetable juices applied on the scalp also provides relief from itching. You can apply a paste of cassia and basil leaves on the scalp. It is a good home remedy for scalp ringworm.

Treatment for Scalp Ringworm

Most doctors prescribe oral anti-fungal medication for treating scalp ringworm infection. A four-week course of anti-fungal medicine Terbinafine is an effective treatment for scalp ringworm. However, it is very important that you complete the course so that the fungal infection is fully cured. Some other anti-fungal medicines for treating scalp ringworm include itraconazole and fluconazole. An 8 to 12 week course of anti-fungal medicine, Griseofulvin, is an effective cure for ringworm.

The side effects of anti-fungal medications are very few. Some common side effects like skin reactions, diarrhea, indigestion and nausea are observed in some people. Therefore, the anti-fungal medications should be used only after consultation with a medical practitioner or a dermatologist.

Anti-fungal creams or shampoos can also be used for scalp ringworm treatment. However, these creams and shampoos only prevent the spread of fungus, they are not very effective in curing the infection.

Scalp Ringworm Prevention

Scalp ringworm can spread from objects used by an infected person. You should not share combs, towels, pillows and hair accessories with family members and friends. If your pet shows any signs of ringworm infection, like patches of missing fur, take him to the vet. Close contact with infected person or pets should be avoided. Wash hands with anti-fungal soap that contains tea tree oil. The infected person's clothes should be washed in hot water with fungicidal soap. The person affected by scalp ring worm should avoid scratching the scalp or the affected area. Scratching only increases the risk of spreading the fungal infection.

Instead of loosing your hair over scalp ringworm, follow the treatment for scalp ringworm prescribed by your doctor. A healthy lifestyle and a balanced diet will help you treat scalp ringworm effectively.