What Causes Ringworm?

Despite its deceiving name, ringworm is caused by a fungus, not a parasitic worm. Fungi, present everywhere in our environment, thrive in warm, moist environments and can be found in large populations like locker rooms and swimming pool areas. Usually, your body can keep fungi in check, but if allowed to thrive, you may develop ringworm.

Ringworm of the skin, also known as tinea corporis and usually caused by the fungus Trichophyton rubrum, can be acquired by sharing a dirty towel, sports equipment, or just by touching an infected person. While this fungal infection can start as simply a patch of itchy red skin, it can easily be spread to other areas of the body, such as the feet (athlete’s foot) or groin area (jock itch).

Jock itch has a similar treatment regimen to ringworm . Still, because of its location on the body, it must be treated more cautiously. When left untreated, ringworm can cover a large area of skin and become not only itchy but painful and prone to infection.

While you need to contact the fungus to get infected, fungal infections seem genetic. If fungal infections run in your family, you may have a genetic predisposition to acquiring ringworm. You must wash thoroughly after being in a locker room, swimming pool, or other humid areas with a genetic predisposition. Check out the Naturasil Sulfur-Lavender Soap for a 100% natural anti-fungal soap.