Although the name may sound like it is caused by worms, ringworm is actually a fungal infection. This disease, which appears as round red bumps on the skin and causes severe itching, can affect any part of the body (neck, armpits, thighs, scalp). Here are the 5 main reasons behind its occurrence and rapid spread from one person to another:
‘Dermatophytes’ Fungal Infection: The main cause of ringworm is a group of fungi called dermatophytes. These fungi live by feeding on the protein keratin in our skin, nails, and hair. When these fungi multiply on the skin, they cause swelling in the cells and the outer surface becomes red and swollen and turns into round spots.
Humidity and excessive sweating: The most suitable environment for fungi to grow is a warm and humid environment. This fungus spreads rapidly in people who sweat excessively, do not wash off sweat properly, and wear damp clothes for a long time. They appear first in the folds of the skin.
Sharing clothes and things (Contact Transmission): Ringworm is highly contagious. When others use towels, soap, clothes, bedsheets, and combs used by an infected person, the fungal spores (Spores) spread to the skin of a new person and cause the disease.
Contact from pets: This fungal infection often occurs on the bodies of cats and dogs in our homes. Ringworm can easily be transmitted from animals to humans (Zoophilic infection) by petting them or lying where they lie.
Weak immune system and tight clothing: People with weak immune systems and uncontrolled diabetes have a lower ability to fight off fungus. Also, wearing tight clothing like air-tight jeans and synthetic underwear can cause sweat to accumulate on the body, which can lead to fungus growth.