You've heard of fungus that grows on trees, but fungus that grows on your HEAD? Is it for real? The answer is YES and there and it's called Tinea Capitis. The good news is that it's both preventable and treatable. Tinea Capitis or ringworm of the scalp, is more common in kids under 10, but can occasionally affect adults. The fungi that cause it, called dermatophytes, are CONTAGIOUS and can be passed along by contact and by sharing things like hats. Occasionally, it can also be SPREAD to humans via cats and dogs. Other risks include poor hygiene, cuts on your scalp, or if your head has been warm and damp-say from SWEAT-for a while. If you've been infected, round bald patches--often scaly, red, and SOMETIMES pus-filled--will appear in one or more places on your head. These patches may slowly get bigger, especially if not treated. To stop a fungal infection before it spreads - or you pass it along to someone else-see your doctor for an antifungal medication. Griseofulvin or Terbinafine hydrochloride are two types of oral drugs commonly prescribed. At first, it may not seem like your condition is improving, but DON'T STOP taking your meds unless you experience side effects like diarrhea, upset stomach or a rash. It might be up to 6 weeks or more before you see results. To learn more about how to avoid other common scalp dilemmas, check out the rest of the videos in this series.