Groin Ringworm: How to Eliminate Groin Ringworm

Ringworm is a skin disease caused by fungal organisms that infect the skin. If it occurs in the groin, it is called groin ringworm or scientifically known as tinea cruris. It is characterized by swelling, redness, dry and patches or scales in the infected area. It is usually formed like a ring, thus the name ringworm. They feed on the dead cell from the skin, hair or even from the nails. It may affect any part of your body even to the genital organs such as in scrotal ringworm.

What causes groin ringworm?

There is a wrong idea about this skin disease. Although its name is ringworm, it is not caused by worms. It is actually caused by fungi. The three classifications of fungi are according to the hosts of the organism that can cause skin infection. They are the following:
1. fungi preferring earth (geophile)
2. fungi preferring animals (zoophile)
3. fungi preferring humans (anthropophile)

Fungi that grow in the groin are caused by anthropophile fungi usual species are Epidermophyton floccosum and Tricophyton rubrum. They are common in warm and moist areas and can be transferred from one to another through direct physical contact. This is perhaps the reason why many wrestlers are infected with this skin disease.

Are there any symptoms?

Ringworms sometimes appear without symptoms. If there is one, what is common is the discoloration of the infected skin. Redness and dryness of the infected area is likewise an initial sign of ringworm. Itchiness will follow when the skin is already irritated with the infection.

How are they treated?

Groin ringworm can actually be treated at home. Ringworm treatment is as easy as treating your ordinary wound. The use of anti fungal crème and ointment to be applied to the infected area of the skin is the first option. Alternative medication is also effective if the infection is only mild to moderate. Proper grooming and sanitation is an effective ways to prevent it. However, if infection is severe and is not given proper medical attention, ringworm can lead to a more serious health problem. Doctor’s prescription is always a good idea.