Ringworm is a common skin infection. It is not caused by a worm, even though the name suggests it. It is caused by a type of fungus. This fungus lives on the skin, hair, and nails. It feeds on a protein called keratin.
Ringworm spreads easily. It can pass from one person to another. It can also spread from animals to people. It can even spread through clothes, towels, and surfaces. It affects people of all ages.
This infection causes red, itchy, ring-shaped rashes. These rashes can appear on different parts of the body. They may be scaly, cracked, or blistered. The infection can become worse if not treated.
There are many ways to treat ringworm. Some are simple creams. Others are pills you take by mouth. The right treatment depends on how serious the infection is and where it appears on the body.
Understanding the Different Types of Ringworm
Ringworm can appear in different parts of the body. It has different names based on where it shows up.
- Tinea corporis – Ringworm of the body. It causes round red patches on the arms, legs, or trunk.
- Tinea capitis – Ringworm of the scalp. It can cause hair loss and scaly patches.
- Tinea pedis – Also called athlete’s foot. It affects the feet, especially between the toes.
- Tinea cruris – Also called jock itch. It affects the groin, inner thighs, and buttocks.
- Tinea unguium – Also called onychomycosis. It affects the toenails or fingernails.
Each type may need a slightly different treatment. But all are caused by similar fungi.
How Is Ringworm Diagnosed?
Doctors usually diagnose ringworm by looking at the skin. The red, ring-shaped rash is often easy to recognize. Sometimes the doctor may scrape a bit of skin and look at it under a microscope. This helps confirm that it is a fungal infection.
In some cases, the doctor may send the sample to a lab. This is to find out the exact type of fungus. Knowing the fungus helps choose the right treatment.
Over-the-Counter Treatments for Ringworm
For mild cases, you can treat ringworm with creams or lotions. These are available without a prescription. They are called antifungal creams.
Some common antifungal ingredients include:
- Clotrimazole
- Miconazole
- Terbinafine
- Tolnaftate
- Ketoconazole
These creams should be applied to the affected area. Make sure to clean and dry the skin first. Rub the cream gently into the skin. Cover a little beyond the edge of the rash.
Most creams should be used once or twice a day. Keep using the cream for at least one week after the rash goes away. This helps prevent the infection from coming back.
These creams are good for:
- Ringworm on the body
- Athlete’s foot
- Jock itch
They may not work as well for scalp or nail infections.
Prescription Creams and Ointments
If over-the-counter creams do not work, a doctor may prescribe stronger ones. These include:
- Econazole
- Ciclopirox
- Oxiconazole
- Naftifine
These are usually stronger than store-bought creams. They may work faster and be more effective. You may need to use them for two to four weeks.
Your doctor may also prescribe a corticosteroid cream for inflammation. But this should only be used for a short time. Steroids can weaken the skin and may help the fungus spread if used alone.
Oral Antifungal Medications
Some ringworm infections are too deep or widespread for creams. This is often true for scalp infections or nail fungus. In these cases, doctors prescribe oral antifungal medicine. These pills work inside the body to kill the fungus.
Common oral antifungal medicines include:
- Terbinafine
- Griseofulvin
- Itraconazole
- Fluconazole
These pills are usually taken once a day. Treatment may last from 2 weeks to several months.
Oral medication is often used for:
- Tinea capitis (scalp ringworm)
- Tinea unguium (nail fungus)
- Severe or large skin infections
- Infections that do not improve with creams
Doctors may do blood tests before and during treatment. This is to check liver function. These medicines can sometimes affect the liver.
Home Remedies That May Help
Some people try home remedies for ringworm. These may help mild cases or be used with other treatments. But they should not replace medical advice.
Some home remedies include:
- Tea tree oil – It has natural antifungal properties. Mix with a carrier oil and apply to the skin.
- Apple cider vinegar – It may help kill fungus. Dab on the skin with a cotton ball.
- Coconut oil – It can soothe the skin and may have antifungal effects.
- Aloe vera – It helps reduce itching and heals the skin.
These remedies are not a cure. Always test a small area first to check for irritation.
How to Care for Ringworm at Home
Proper skin care helps treatment work better. It also helps stop the infection from spreading.
Here are some important tips:
- Keep the area clean and dry
- Wash your hands after touching the rash
- Do not scratch the rash
- Do not share towels, clothes, or bedding
- Wash clothes in hot water and dry in high heat
- Wear loose-fitting clothing
- Disinfect floors, showers, and other surfaces
- Avoid walking barefoot in public places
If you have a pet, check for signs of ringworm. Pets can carry the fungus. They may have bald patches, scaly skin, or itchy areas. Take them to a vet if needed.
How Long Does It Take to Get Rid of Ringworm
Ringworm can go away in a few weeks with proper treatment. Mild cases on the skin often clear up in 2 to 4 weeks. Nail infections or scalp infections take longer. These may need treatment for several months.
You should continue treatment for the full time your doctor recommends. Even if the rash looks better, stopping early can cause the infection to return.
If you do not see improvement in 2 weeks, see a doctor. You may need a stronger treatment.
When to See a Doctor
Sometimes ringworm does not improve with simple treatments. You should see a doctor if:
- The rash is getting worse
- The infection covers a large area
- The scalp or nails are infected
- There is pus, swelling, or pain
- You have a fever or feel sick
- You have a weak immune system
- The infection keeps coming back
A doctor can confirm the diagnosis and recommend the best treatment.
How to Prevent Ringworm
You can take steps to avoid getting ringworm or spreading it to others.
Here are some helpful tips:
- Keep your skin clean and dry
- Change socks and underwear daily
- Avoid sharing personal items
- Wear sandals in public showers
- Disinfect gym equipment and yoga mats
- Take care of pets and watch for signs of infection
- Wash hands often, especially after touching animals
- Trim nails and keep them clean
Children should not return to school or daycare until treatment has started. This helps stop the spread to others.
Ringworm in Children
Ringworm is common in children, especially on the scalp. It may look like a scaly patch or a bald spot. Sometimes there are black dots where hair has broken off.
Children may need oral medicine for scalp ringworm. Creams alone usually do not work for this type.
Griseofulvin is often used for kids. It is usually safe and effective. Terbinafine may also be used in children over a certain age.
Parents should check other family members and pets. Ringworm can easily spread in the home.
Ringworm in Athletes
Athletes, especially wrestlers and swimmers, often get ringworm. They may get it from mats, locker rooms, or skin contact.
The best way to prevent it is to:
- Shower after practice
- Use antifungal powder if prone to infections
- Wear sandals in locker rooms
- Wash clothes and towels often
- Avoid sharing gear
If an athlete has ringworm, they should not compete until treatment starts and the rash is covered.
Final Thoughts
Ringworm is a common and treatable skin infection. It is caused by a fungus, not a worm. It often appears as a red, ring-shaped rash. It can be itchy, scaly, or blistered.
Good treatment depends on where the ringworm is and how serious it is. Mild cases on the skin can often be treated with antifungal creams. More serious infections, especially on the scalp or nails, may need oral medication.
Other helpful steps include keeping the area clean and dry, not scratching, and avoiding the spread to others. Home remedies may help mild cases, but they should not replace medical treatment.
If your rash does not improve in a few weeks, or if it gets worse, talk to a doctor. With the right treatment and care, ringworm usually clears up completely.
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