Ringworm is a fungal infection of the skin. It typically causes red rings with white centers. The white centers may appear like blisters, and the blisters may or may not ooze. Ringworm is not caused by worms, but gets its name from its ring-like appearance.
Ringworm can affect any part of the body, but it affects different parts of the body in different ways. Ringworm is usually very itchy, regardless of where it appears.
On the scalp or beard areas, ringworm may initially look like large pimples. If left untreated, bald spots may appear.
Ringworm of the foot is often referred to as athlete’s foot. It’s often picked up in places like gyms and locker rooms, which is why it’s called athlete’s foot. It causes red, flaky skin, especially between the toes.
When ringworm affects the groin area, it is often called jock itch. It can spread to the inner thighs and buttocks. As the name implies, it is usually quite itchy.
Ringworm can also affect the fingernails and toenails. This looks much like any other nail fungus. The nails become yellowish and brittle and may begin to crumble.
Ringworm is transmitted through direct contact with an infected person. It can also be spread through contact with domestic animals like pets. It can also be spread by contact with an object or surface that was in contact with an infected person or pet, like towels or locker room floors. Ringworm is highly contagious.
To help prevent ringworm, locker rooms and communal showers should be kept scrupulously clean. You can wear shower shoes or flip flops in locker rooms and communal showers to help protect yourself.
Don’t share personal items like towel, hair brushes, and hats. If you think you have been exposed to ringworm, take a shower and shampoo your hair right away, then wash your clothing in hot water.
Ringworm can spread from one part of the body to another. If you have ringworm, wash your hands after touching the affected area (for instance, if you are applying medicated cream to the area) before touch the rest of your body. If you have athlete’s foot, put your socks on before you put on your underwear so your infected feet don’t contaminate your underwear and spread the infection to your groin.
Ringworm infection requires medical treatment. Without treatment, the condition will just get worse and worse.
Ringworm can be treated with topical medications such as Lotrimin and Mycelex. There are topical medications available over the counter, and others available by prescription only. Topical medications for ringworm have minimal side effects, which include skin irritation and a burning or stinging sensation when applied. The downside to topical medications for ringworm is that they often take as long as four weeks to take effect.
Ringworm can also be treated with oral medications, such as Diflucan, Lamisil, and Griseofulvin. These medications are available by prescription only. They have more potential side effects than topical medications; potential side effects include headaches, dizziness, nausea, and diarrhea. Oral medications often much be taken for two week or more before they take effect.
If untreated, ringworm will only get worse. It can spread from one part of the body to another. Affected skin may split and crack, which can lead to bacterial infections. If bacterial infections occur, antibiotics will be needed.
Sources:
WebMD. http://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/tc/ringworm-of-the-skin-topic-overview. Ringworm of the Skin.
