What is Ringworm in the scalp and how to treat it

Ringworm on the scalp, also known as Tinea capitis or capillary tinea, is a fungal infection that appears in the hair, causing, in addition to intense itching, hair loss in some places of the head.

Since it is caused by fungi, this type of ringworm can easily pick up from person to person, especially through the sharing of combs, towels, hats, cushions or any other object that is in direct contact with the head.

The best form of treatment is to maintain good hair hygiene and use antifungal substances prescribed by a dermatologist, which can be applied in the form of cream, but also shampoo.

Main symptoms

Ringworm on the leather may cause symptoms such as:

• Intense itching of the head;
• Presence of dandruff;
• Black spots on the scalp;
• Areas with hair loss;
• Yellow crusts on hair.

In addition to these symptoms, some people may still have sore throats in the neck, due to the immune system's response to fight infection caused by fungi.

Generally, this type of ringworm is more common in children between the ages of 3 and 7, as they tend to lean their heads and share objects that are in contact with the hair, spreading fungi.

How is the treatment done?

The treatment for ringworm in the hair needs to be directed by a dermatologist and is usually done with the use of oral antifungals and shampoos to eliminate excess fungi from the head and relieve symptoms.

Some of the most commonly used oral antifungals recommended by the dermatologist include Griseofulvin or Terbinafine, which should be ingested for about 6 weeks, even if the symptoms have already improved. Prolonged use of these medicines can cause some side effects such as vomiting, excessive tiredness, dizziness, headache and red spots on the skin.

Scalp ringworm shampoos

In addition to the oral remedies, the doctor may also advise that hair hygiene be carried out with an antifungal shampoo containing Ketoconazole or Selenium Sulfide. Some examples are:

• Nizoral;
• Teuto Ketoconazole;
• Medley Ketoconazole;
• Caspacil;
• Dercos.

Shampoos help to relieve symptoms quickly, but do not completely prevent the development of fungi. Thus, it is always recommended to use the shampoos along with the oral antifungal remedies prescribed by the dermatologist.

How to get ringworm on the scalp

Ringworm on the scalp picks up through contact with the fungi of an infected person. Thus ringworm can pass through direct contact with hair or through the sharing of objects that are used in hair such as combs, towels, elastics, hats or pillow cases.