Aug 30, 2024 | Healthy Living

Understanding the Causes of Ringworm

Think you have ringworm but are unsure how you got it? Learn the culprit behind the condition, how it spreads, and who’s most susceptible.

So, your skin’s been bothering you ever since you noticed a couple red patches of irritated skin on your hands. Turns out it’s ringworm — you can’t figure out how you got it but you remember that sunny day at Coolidge Park when you decided to pet your friend’s goldendoodle Sam. Ringworm, a common fungal infection, is caused by a group of fungi called dermatophytes. These fungi thrive in warm, moist environments, making the skin, hair, and nails ideal breeding grounds — even in pets!

How Ringworm Spreads

Dermatophytes can spread in several ways:

1. Direct contact: Touching an infected person or animal can transmit ringworm.
2. Indirect contact: Sharing contaminated items like clothing, towels, or bedding can also spread the infection.
3. Contact with infected surfaces: Ringworm can survive on surfaces for a while, so touching an infected surface and then your own skin can lead to infection.

Risk Factors for Ringworm

Certain factors can increase your risk of developing ringworm, including:

• Weakened immune system: People with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS or undergoing chemotherapy, are more susceptible to fungal infections.
• Skin conditions: People with skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis may be more prone to ringworm.
• Contact with infected individuals or animals: Ringworm can be spread through contact with an infected person or animal, such as pets or livestock.
• Sharing personal items: Sharing items like clothing, towels, or razors with an infected person can increase your risk.
• Certain medications: Some medications, such as corticosteroids, can suppress the immune system and increase the risk of fungal infections.
• Hot and humid environments: Living in or spending time in hot and humid climates can create favorable conditions for the growth of dermatophytes.

High-Risk Groups

Some groups of people are particularly at risk for ringworm, including:

• Children: Children are often more susceptible to ringworm due to their close contact with other children and their tendency to share personal items.
• Athletes: Athletes who share equipment or locker rooms with others are at increased risk.
• People in crowded living conditions: Individuals living in crowded or unsanitary conditions may be more likely to come into contact with ringworm.

Preventing Ringworm

While it’s not always possible to avoid ringworm completely, practicing good hygiene and taking precautions can significantly reduce your risk. Some preventive measures include:

• Washing your hands frequently: This helps to remove any potential fungal spores from your hands.
• Avoiding contact with infected individuals or animals: If possible, stay away from people or animals with known ringworm infections.
• Keeping skin clean and dry: Moisture can promote the growth of fungi, so keep your skin clean and dry, especially in areas prone to sweating or friction.
• Not sharing personal items: Avoid sharing items like clothing, towels, or razors with others.
• Sanitizing shared surfaces: Regularly clean and disinfect shared surfaces, such as gym equipment or locker room floors.
• Using antifungal foot powder: If you have sweaty feet or participate in activities that can lead to fungal infections, using antifungal foot powder can help prevent ringworm.

By understanding the causes and risk factors for ringworm, and taking preventive measures, you can help protect yourself and others from this common fungal infection.