Ringworm is highly contagious and can spread quickly in environments with warm and moist conditions. It commonly affects areas such as the body, scalp, feet (athlete’s foot), and nails. Despite its name, ringworm has nothing to do with worms; it’s simply a fungal infection that causes a distinctive, red, itchy, and scaly rash that may have a raised border.
The infection can occur anywhere on the body, but it is most common on the torso, arms, and legs. People who are more prone to ringworm include those who have close contact with others, such as athletes, or those who share common spaces like gym showers, swimming pools, or locker rooms. Children are especially vulnerable to contracting ringworm due to their tendency to engage in activities that involve direct skin-to-skin contact with others.
If you notice any unusual skin rashes or symptoms resembling ringworm, it’s essential to seek medical advice. A dermatologist can diagnose the infection based on the appearance of your skin and may recommend antifungal treatments, which are usually very effective.
To prevent the spread of ringworm, it’s important to keep your skin clean and dry, avoid sharing personal items like towels and clothing, and wear shoes in public areas like pools or gyms. If you suspect you have ringworm, it’s important to refrain from scratching the rash to prevent further spreading, especially in community or shared spaces.
If you suspect you have ringworm or have concerns about any skin condition, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with Dermatology – Doral Health & Wellness NY. Our experienced specialists can help diagnose and provide effective treatments to stop the spread of the infection.
Types of Ringworm
Despite its misleading name, is a common fungal infection caused by various species of fungi. The infection’s name comes from the distinctive ring-shaped rash that forms on the skin, typically with a raised, scaly border. While it can affect different parts of the body, the symptoms and severity can vary based on the location and the type of fungus responsible.
Here are some common types of ringworm and the areas they typically affect:
Tinea Pedis (Athlete’s Foot): This form of ringworm affects the feet, particularly between the toes. It can cause itching, burning, and cracked skin. It’s often contracted in damp areas like public showers or swimming pools.
Tinea Cruris (Jock Itch): Ringworm that affects the groin area, inner thighs, and buttocks. It causes itching and red, scaly rashes. It’s more common in people who sweat a lot, such as athletes, and can spread from infected clothing or towels.
Tinea Capitis (Scalp Ringworm): This type affects the scalp and is more common in children. It causes hair loss, scaly patches, and itching. It’s highly contagious and can spread through shared combs or hats.
Tinea Barbae (Beard Ringworm): This infection affects the beard area, causing hair loss, redness, and irritation. It’s more commonly seen in men and can spread through grooming tools like razors.
Tinea Unguium (Nail Ringworm or Onychomycosis): This form of ringworm affects toenails and fingernails, causing them to become thickened, discolored, and brittle. It’s more likely to affect the toenails and can spread from the feet to the nails.
Tinea Manuum (Hand Ringworm): This affects the hands, often causing dry, scaly patches or redness. It’s common in individuals who have frequent contact with infected surfaces or people.
Tinea Corporis (Body Ringworm): This type affects the torso, arms, and legs. It causes a characteristic ring-shaped rash with clear skin in the center and scaly edges.
With about 40 different fungi capable of causing ringworm, it’s important to be cautious in environments that encourage fungal growth, such as public locker rooms, showers, and swimming pools. While ringworm is highly contagious, it can usually be effectively treated with antifungal creams or oral medication. If you suspect you have ringworm or experience persistent symptoms, it’s important to consult a dermatologist for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Symptoms
The symptoms can vary depending on the area of the body affected, but they share common characteristics that make the infection easily identifiable. Here’s a more detailed look at the typical symptoms:
Ring-Shaped Rash: The most characteristic sign of ringworm is a circular, ring-like rash with raised edges and clear skin in the center. The rings may overlap and spread outward as the infection grows.
Red, Scaly, and Cracked Skin: The affected skin may become red, dry, and cracked, often with flaking or peeling. The skin can appear inflamed, which may worsen with scratching.
Itchiness: One of the most common symptoms of ringworm is intense itching, which can be particularly bothersome, especially in areas like the groin, feet, or scalp. Scratching the rash can lead to secondary infections or worsen the irritation.
Hair Loss: When the scalp or beard is affected by ringworm, hair loss may occur in the form of bald patches. This happens as the fungus infects the hair follicles, causing them to weaken or become damaged.
Patches that Develop into Blisters or Pustules: As the infection progresses, the rash may develop into small blisters or pustules filled with fluid. These blisters can burst and form crusty scabs as they heal.
Raised Edges of the Rash: The edges of the ring-shaped rash may be raised, which gives it a distinctive appearance. These edges may be scaly or bumpy, and the center of the ring often appears clearer or less irritated.
Overlapping Rings: In some cases, multiple rings may form and overlap each other, creating a patchwork-like effect on the skin. This can make the infection appear more widespread.
Other Possible Symptoms
Depending on the location of the infection, you might also experience pain, tenderness, or a burning sensation, especially if the ringworm is severe or spreading. If ringworm affects the nails, they may become thickened, discolored, or brittle.
Ringworm is highly contagious and can spread easily through skin-to-skin contact, shared personal items, or contact with contaminated surfaces. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult with a dermatologist to prevent further spread and receive proper treatment. With timely intervention, ringworm can be effectively treated with antifungal medications, preventing complications and helping your skin heal.
Causes
The fungus that causes ringworm can live on your skin and other surfaces, especially in areas that are damp and moist. These fungi spread in four different ways, such as:
- Object to human – you can get the infection if you come in contact with an object that has the fungi, such as a mobile phone
- Animal to human – if you touch an animal that is infected by ringworm, such as cat or dog, they can spread the infection
- Soil to human – you can get ringworm after direct contact with soil that is carrying the fungi
- Human to human – you can get the infection if come in close contact with a person who has the infection if you share personal items such as towels and combs
Treatment
The treatment you need will depend on the location of your ringworm, and how bad the infection is. In most cases, your dermatologist can recommend an over the counter medicines, although some might need a prescription from your dermatologist. In most cases, you might need to use the medication on your skin for two to four weeks to make sure that the infection has already cleared off.
At Doral Health and Wellness Dermatology Center, we have the best dermatologists that can help you take care of your skin infection and problems. As dermatology experts in East New York, we are dedicated in providing the best services. You can visit us at 1797 Pitkin Avenue, Brooklyn, New York, 11212, to schedule an appointment. You can also call us at 1-347-384-5690 or visit our website at https://www.bestbrooklyndermatologist.com.
