Hair Loss From Ringworm Infection

| by Kathlene Capelle | August 25, 2006
You can get hair loss from ringworm. The medical term for ringworm of the scalp is Tinea capatis. In order to understand what should the proper treatment be for your hair loss, you have to understand this condition.

Ringworm is first caused by an infection that begins in the scalp area. If this is not treated right away, it causes fungus to produce in that area, which leads to ringworm. When you first have ringworm of the scalp, you will notice that there is itching that occurs on the head. At this point, the scalp may become irritated and red. You will begin to experience hair loss. This is observed by the bald patches that form on your head.

There are a variety of reasons why you get ringworm. Ringworm is commonly found in children. Most often, it is a result of bad hygiene. However, it may also be related to wetness from the skin, such as sweating, that is not washed off. Ringworm may also occur if there is an injury or scrape from the skin. If this is not taken care of properly, it can easily cause an infection. It is important to understand the ringworm is not an actual worm, rather a fungus.

If your scalp is irritated or you are noticing hair loss, it is important to get diagnosed right away. Your health care provider will be able to give you a skin lesion biopsy, which will show if there is bacteria or fungus that is being produced in your scalp. If the infection has been occurring for a longer amount of time, it can be found easily through placing a light on the area where it is irritated and balding.

If you have ringworm, you will need to first get an anti-fungal medication. This will help to kill off the bacteria in that area. At this point, you will need to use a medicated shampoo and make sure that you are keeping the area where the fungus was being produced completely clean. Selenium sulfide is one of the common ingredients that you should find in the shampoo. Make sure that you wash your hair thoroughly with the shampoo. Also, practise good hygiene habits with the use of the items on your hair such as your hair brush or towel that you use to dry off your hair. Do not share the use of these items with your family or friends when you are having ringworm of the scalp.

Ringworm of the scalp is contagious; hence you should be careful about spreading this infection to others. As far as possible, you should try to stay away from crowds this period until your condition has cleared. Hair loss through ringworm of the scalp is treatable. Get help quickly before your hair loss becomes severe!

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About the Author

Kathlene Capelle is a writer for beauty tips and advice. Her site has information on laser hair removal, permanent hair removal, waxing and other hair removal methods. Please visit http://www.Hair-Removal-Central.com. » Read more articles by Kathlene Capelle
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