Ringworm is a fungal infection and therefore the best form of treatment is the use of an antifungal medication such as Miconazole, Itraconazole or Fluconazole, for example.
Depending on the site affected, the form of presentation may vary from tablet, cream, spray, lotion, ointment, enamel or shampoo, as well as the treatment time which is generally higher for cases of toenail fungus which has an average duration of 6 months.
Thus, the main treatment options include:
1. Skin rash
The main options for treating mycoses of the skin are creams, soaps, ointments and solutions that contain active ingredients such as Selenium Sulfide, Miconazole, Imidazole, Clotrimazole, Fluconazole, Ketoconazole, for example, used for about 1 to 4 weeks, according to with each case. These principles can still be found in the form of shampoos, which are usually used to treat ringworm on the scalp. Learn more about this type of ringworm and check examples of shampoos.
When topical options are not possible, or when there is no improvement in the infection, the dermatologist may indicate the use of tablets, based on Ketoconazole, Itraconazole, Fluconazole or Terbinafine, which should be used within 3 to 7 days to combat fungi inside.
The choice of the best remedy should always be made by the dermatologist and therefore whenever you suspect ringworm it is important to go to an appointment before using any medication. Check out more details on the remedies used to treat ringworm and how to use it.
2. Mycosis fungoides
Nail mycosis is usually treated with an amorphol-based anti-fungal enamel under medical supervision, requiring 1 to 2 applications per week on the affected nail. Usually, this treatment lasts between 6 months and 1 year.
When there is a serious infection, or when the nails are very affected, tablet medications such as Fluconazole, Itraconazole, or Terbinafine may be needed for several weeks to months. This type of treatment must be accompanied with returns to the doctor, since the medicines can cause side effects, like damages to the function of the liver.
Another option is the laser treatment, called photodynamic therapy, in which weekly sessions are required for 1 to 3 months to eliminate the fungus and promote nail growth. See more details of this and other treatments for nail fungus.
How to speed up treatment results
Some daily habits that can both prevent and help fight against ringworm more quickly:
- Dry the skin well after bathing, especially in the feet, between the fingers and in the folds of the body;
- Avoid staying too long with wet clothing, after bathing in the beach or swimming pool;
- Prefer to wear light and airy clothing, preferably cotton;
- Do not share clothes, shoes or objects that can transmit fungi, such as hairbrush, nail socks and nail pliers, to other people;
- Avoid walking barefoot in public places, especially if they are humid, like saunas, beaches and public restrooms;
- Avoid scratching the sites with ringworm to prevent the spread of the disease to other parts of the body.
Natural remedy options exist and can be used as a complement to treatment, not replacing physician-directed treatment, and some options may include clove, sage and garlic essential oil, for example. Check out some home remedies and recipes for ringworm remedies.
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