Caused by organisms called dermatophytes, ringworm can infect the skin, hair, nails and feet. You will know that you have ringworm of the skin if you develop a rash that looks red and patchy then develops into multiple red rings that may be scaly or itchy. Ringworm of the scalp causes patchy hair loss (in animals as well as people,) and ringworm of the nails can cause thick, crumbling and discolored nails. Ringworm of the foot, also known as ?athlete's foot,? can cause scaly, itching skin on the feet, especially

between the toes.

To treat ringworm, there are several options available to you depending on the type of ringworm that you have.

Anti-fungal topical treatments are often the most widely used treatment for ringworm of the skin. Your doctor can prescribe such a cream, or you can

also find effective fungus fighting creams over the counter at your local pharmacy. Some common names for topical ringworm treatments that you may

see are:

Terbanafine

Miconazole

Tolnaftate

Undecylenic Acid

For ringworm of the scalp and nails, you will probably have to use an orally administered treatment prescribed by a medical professional. Beginning treatment as soon as the ringworm is noticed is important to prevent

permanent hair loss.

If your pet is infected with ringworm, they will need a different kind of medicine than people take, prescribed to them by a qualified veterinarian.

There are also various home remedies for ringworm.

Ringworm is a fungal infection caused by organisms called dermatophytes. Ringworm can affect the skin, hair, feet and nails. There are prescription and over the counter remedies available for the treatment of ringworm, but if you prefer using a more natural approach you can try the home remedies

listed below.

Iodine: Iodine can be used to help fight ringworm infection. Simply apply

iodine to the infected area up to three times daily.

Sea Salt: A mixture of sea salt and warm water applied to the skin can also

help eradicate ringworm and soothe discomfort.

Clear Nail Polish: A coat of clear nail polish applied to ringworm will

suffocate the ringworm and help eradicate the infection

Vinegar: Rubbing vinegar on the infected area can also help destroy ringworm.

Chewing Tobacco: Make a poultice with chewing tobacco and a little water. Apply to the infected area, cover with a clean bandage, and allow to set overnight.

Epsom Salt: Soaking in a hot bath filled with a generous amount of Epsom salts can help get rid of ringworm.

Green Walnuts: Break open the walnuts and rub the juice found within on any areas of ringworm.

Tea Tree Oil: Tea tree oil is a common oil that can act as an astringent and help your ringworm infection heal. Apply regularly throughout the day

to the infected area.

Diaper Rash Ointment: Any basic diaper rash ointment can be applied to ringworm several times a day to aid healing.

If the above remedies fail to get rid of your ringworm infection, contact your doctor or try an over the counter cream.