Head fungus: What are the symptoms?

Have you ever felt strong itching in your head? Pay attention to what we tell you below because it could be head fungus: Would you know how to recognize its symptoms? On Hospital Capilar We give you all the information about this pathology.

What are head fungi?

It is understood as fungus on the head that infection that occurs on the scalp due to a specific fungus. This is known as ringworm of the scalp or tinea capitis, and it is the cause of the discomfort derived from this type of infection.

Tinea capitis reproduces easily on the head due to the presence of keratin in the hair. This protein contains sulfur, which creates the ideal conditions for this type of fungus to proliferate, causing an infection on the scalp.

Mushrooms on the head yes they are contagious by direct contact Mainly with animals, although they can also be spread from an infected person to a healthy one. The main routes of infection are combs, pillows, seat backs, and hats and caps. Therefore, to avoid contracting fungus on the head it is recommended do not share these types of objects with an infected person or with animals.

Symptoms of fungus in the hair: How to recognize them?

The discomfort caused by tinea capitis is very characteristic. To know if we are facing a fungal infection, it is important to recognize the symptoms. However, it is highly recommended that a medical team specialized in the hair sector can determine the origin of these discomforts and provide the most appropriate treatment in each case.

Appearance of pimples

The first thing people who get fungus on the head usually notice is the formation of a pimple that, over time, expands, leading to flaking.

Itching

Itching and stinging are the most characteristic symptoms of ringworm on the head. Infected people tend to scratch their head excessively causing a considerable worsening of the condition of the scalp.

Redness of the skin

Due to the intense itching that people with head fungus experience, the scalp tends to become red and inflamed. 

Appearance of scaly areas

If the infection is not treated and spreads, scaly lesions begin to appear that can ooze. These usually have a reddish color.

Swollen lymph nodes

It is not usual, but it is true that if the infection spreads excessively, it can lead to swollen lymph nodes. This is more serious and usually leads to headache, vomiting, and fever. For this reason it is important to see a professional in case of suffering from any of these symptoms to treat the problem as soon as possible.

How do fungi affect hair?

Head fungus can also cause hair problems. In this sense, our medical equipment indicates you can perceive a hair loss in the form of patches. This lack of hair is temporary and reversible, so when the tinea capitis infection is controlled, the hair will come out again normally.

Another problem that fungi can cause at the capillary level is the hair breakage. This type of infection also acts against the hair fibers, making them much more fragile and brittle.

Treatments for tinea capitis

In case of suffering from ringworm on the scalp, it is essential that a doctor determines what treatment to follow. Topical antifungals are generally recommended in the form of lotions and shampoos. However, in many cases this is not enough and drugs adapted to each patient must be given.

One of the issues to take into account so that the infection does not go further, is try to keep the area as less humid as possible. In addition, the scalp must be clean to reduce the itchiness caused by ringworm as much as possible.