Ringworm is a fungal infection that can be treated with the help of some antifungal creams. Find out more information about these creams and how they can help treat ringworm, through this HealthHearty article.
Antifungal creams are topical antifungal medications that are employed for the treatment of fungal infections, which can affect nails, and the skin of the feet, genital area, and any other part of the body. Ringworm, athlete’s foot, nail fungus, jock itch, and candidiasis are some common conditions that are caused by fungal infections.
Ringworm is usually caused by the fungi of the group dermatophytes. This fungal infection is characterized by the appearance of a circular skin rash with slightly raised edges. The affected area of the skin becomes red, and it can itch a lot. Ringworm is an annoying condition, which can be treated with the help of some over-the-counter and prescription antifungal medications.
Antifungal Medications for Ringworm
There are several types of antifungal creams, which are available in different strengths. Sometimes, they are combined with steroids in order to reduce the inflammation caused by a fungal infection. The prescription, as well as the over-the-counter creams work by identifying and destroying the fungal cells without damaging the human cells.
However, this is not a very easy task, as both human and fungal cells are eukaryotic cells, and so, both can look quite similar. This is the reason why, one can experience a few side effects, like itching, skin irritation, and redness while using these medications. Nevertheless, these medications can be required to treat ringworm.
Clotrimazole
It is used for the treatment of athlete’s foot, jock itch, and vaginal yeast infections, along with ringworm. It is usually available as an over-the-counter medication for fungal infections.
Miconazole
Miconazole is a widely used antifungal medication that can inhibit the synthesis of a compound, known as ergosterol. Ergosterol is essential for the formation of fungal cell membrane. By preventing the production of ergosterol, miconazole helps cure ringworm.
Terbinafine
Terbinafine inhibits the production of ergosterol, which is an essential component of the fungal cell membrane. Terbinafine is a prescription antifungal cream, and is also available as an oral medication.
Ketoconazole
Ketoconazole is a prescription antifungal medication that can be used for the treatment of ringworm. Like terbinafine, ketoconazole can also be found as an oral medication. Along with ringworm, it can be used for the treatment of athlete’s foot, jock itch, and candidiasis.
Natural Treatment for Ringworm
Several natural remedies can prove immensely helpful in treating ringworm, especially if it is not very severe. One such remedy is tea tree oil, which has antifungal properties. Other important home remedies for this fungal infection are, garlic, a paste made from mustard seeds, castor oil, coconut oil, juice of raw turmeric, white vinegar, and baking soda.
You can mix both white vinegar and baking soda to prepare a homemade antifungal cream as well. Just add 6 to 7 teaspoons of white vinegar to about half cup of baking soda, and mix them properly to make a fine paste. This homemade cream can be stored in the refrigerator, and used two to three times a day to treat ringworm.
Some people can experience a few side effects, like itching, redness, skin irritation, and an allergic reaction, after using the over-the-counter and prescription antifungal creams. In such a situation, a physician should be informed at the earliest. Keep in mind that the suitability of a particular treatment depends on the severity of the infection. If the fungal infection is quite severe, and it has affected a large part of your body, then it is better to consult a physician for proper treatment.
