Ringworm stages vary in manifestation. The skin infection found on the scalp would look different than the one on the arm. With ringworm of the scalp, it is common to see some hair loss. The stages of the condition and how it appears depends on which part of the skin it is. Wherever it may be, once you have it, it is best to seek immediate treatment.
Knowing how to identify the symptoms of ringworm especially at its earliest stage is important so that the infection doesn’t get any worse.
- The first sign of ringworm is a minor burning sensation and itching. Often, this is not immediately recognized as a symptom of ringworm because a slight itch is nothing unusual.
- After experiencing itch and burning sensation, inflammation comes next in ringworm stages. The infected part would appear reddish and sometimes flaky. This is more common in athlete’s foot. The skin around the toes becomes noticeably flaky that peels off on its own.
- The inflamed area would develop a circular rash that appears slightly raised. When this happens, you can be sure that it is ringworm. Other infected areas would show small bumps that are exceedingly itchy.
When ringworm develops, it is not advisable to scratch the area no matter how itchy it gets. Scratching could make matters worse and could possibly spread the infection to other areas of the skin. After contact with the fungus that causes ringworm, scalp ringworm develops in 10 to 14 days while it takes about 4 to 10 days for ringworm of the skin or the body.
Understanding Ringworm Stages
What would seem like the usual pimples could be the start of an infection. It would become very itchy at first but the center would soon clear, spreading outward to form a ring. Its outer edges would be forming a kind of crust that is yellowish in color.
As mentioned above, if the infection is on the scalp, the hair on the spot would become brittle then breaks and would result to a temporary hair loss. The hair grows back once the ringworm is completely cured.
As for athlete’s foot, the flaking and its subsequent peeling off can be mistaken for a simple case of dry skin. However, you’ll know what it truly is because as part of the ringworm stages for this type, the skin will unavoidably thicken. It is quite disturbing and uncomfortable.
Ringworm of the fingernails manifests itself by making the nails swell. Then they turn brittle and yellow.
Ringworm spares no one; anybody can get it. It is annoying, uncomfortable at times and can cause you sleepless nights if left untreated. Another alarming fact about it is that it is very contagious. Do not share personal items like towels, linens, any clothing and avoid contact with anyone who has it.
Chances of Recurring
Treating ringworm quickly and as soon as it happens is the most effective way to get rid of it. Ordinary infection normally clears up within 12 to 14 days of treatment. Please note that ringworm stages are not only about the changes that happen during infection. It is also about reversing the situation to heal the infection. The first stage after a few days of treatment is a clearing of the infected spot in your skin. Stopping the application of anti-ringworm topical creams the moment you see the affected area clear could mean an incomplete treatment. The underlying root of the fungus that caused the infection could still be lingering and could recover if you prematurely stop the treatment. It is highly important that you continue the treatment according to the number of days recommended to ensure that the infection does not recur.