Most people think of athlete’s foot when they hear about ringworm. True, tinea pedis is more common, but tinea manuum, or ringworm on the hands, can be just as uncomfortable. What’s more, both ringworm types are highly contagious, so seeking treatment is crucial.
In this article, we look at the symptoms and causes of tinea manuum before outlining the treatment options.
What Are the Symptoms of Tinea Manuum?
If you see one or more of the following symptoms, you may be suffering from this condition:
- Patches of dry, scaly skin
- Tiny blisters excreting a clear, sticky substance
- Skin discoloration
- Itching
- Red, ring-like skin that is raised, clear skin at the center
What Causes Ringworm on the Hands?
Tinea manuum is the result of a fungal skin infection. Mold-like parasites cause it, with the possibility of the infection affecting the hands, feet, groin area, or scalp. About 10-20% of people develop some form of ringworm sometime during their life.
How Do You Contract Tinea Manuum?
All ringworm types are highly contagious. For instance, you can get tinea manuum if you suffer from athlete’s foot and touch your feet with broken skin on your hands. In addition, you can contract tinea manuum in the following ways:
- Skin contact with people suffering from ringworm
- Skin contact with animals suffering from ringworm
- Skin contact with an object handled by someone suffering from ringworm
- Skin contact with contaminated soil
Tinea Manuum Treatments
If you think you may be suffering from tinea manuum, it’s best to seek medical advice. This is because many other skin conditions have a similar appearance.
Once diagnosed, your physician will either prescribe an antifungal cream to apply to affected areas. Alternatively, she/he may prescribe oral antifungal medication. The treatment will depend on the severity of your tinea manuum infection.
