Tinea capitis – causes, side effects and treatments at NaturalPedia.com

Monday, July 02, 2018 by Michelle Simmons

Also referred to as ringworm of the scalp, tinea capitis is the infection of the scalp with a dermatophyte fungus. Dermatophytes prefer warmth and moisture, so they thrive on sweaty skin. Overcrowding and poor hygiene increase the spread of ringworm. The condition has the name ringworm because the fungus makes circular marks on the skin, often with flat centers and raised borders. This fungal infection affects the scalp and hair shafts, which results in small patches of itchy, scaly skin. Ringworm is a highly contagious infection that is usually spread through person-to-person contact or by sharing combs, towels, hats, or pillows. It is most common in children, although it can infect a person of any age.

Known symptoms of tinea capitis

The signs of tinea capitis include itchiness, dry scaling, which looks similar to dandruff but are usually with moth-eaten hair loss; black dots, in which the hairs are broken off at the scalp surface; smooth areas of hair loss; kerion, which is a very inflamed mass like an abscess; favus, which are yellow crusts; and matted hair. Tinea capitis may also lead to swollen lymph glands at the sides of the back of the neck. Other signs of tinea capitis include brittle hair, painful scalp, and low-grade fever. Tinea capitis can also lead to other complications such as severe hair loss, scarring alopecia, and psychological impact.

Body systems harmed by tinea capitis

The body systems harmed by tinea capitis include the integumentary system, immune system, and lymphatic system.

List of foods or nutrients that prevent tinea capitis

There is no information on what foods or nutrients may help prevent tinea capitis. Nonetheless, tinea capitis can be prevented by maintaining good hygiene and avoiding contact with people or pets who have the condition.

Treatments, management plans for tinea capitis

Natural treatments for tinea capitis include coconut oil, garlic, aloe vera, myrrh and goldenseal, turmeric, tea tree oil, apple cider vinegar, and papaya.

Where to learn more

Summary

Tinea capitis is an infection in the scalp caused by the fungus called dermatophyte.

Tinea capitis is also referred to as ringworm of the scalp.

Tinea capitis causes dry scaling, itchiness, black dots, kerion, favus, matted hair, swollen lymph glands, brittle hair, painful scalp, and low-grade fever.

Tinea capitis can be prevented by maintaining good hygiene and avoiding contact with people or pets who have the condition.

Natural treatments for tinea capitis include coconut oil, garlic, aloe vera, myrrh and goldenseal, turmeric, tea tree oil, apple cider vinegar, and papaya.

Sources include:

PrimeHealthChannel.com

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