Ringworm

Have you noticed expanding red circles on your skin? If so, you might have ringworm.

The condition known as ringworm of the skin (tinea corporis) is a topical fungal infection. It normally looks like a red circle in the top layer of your skin that can spread and enlarge while the inner part of the circle returns to normal colour.

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Ringworm symptoms

You might be suffering from ringworm if you notice*:

  • Round patches of skin with a red raised edge and a clearer center
  • Scaly and itchy skin
  • Very red color, with scaling at the edge of the rash (inflammation)
  • Raised and blistered skin (this is a symptom of a more severe ringworm infection)
  • Multiple rings (this is a symptom of a severe infection)
  • Inflamed pus-filled sores (this is a symptom of a severe infection)

See a doctor if:

  • You are pregnant or elderly
  • Ringworm lesions cover a large area on your body
  • Or if you're feeling unsure of your symptom

* Tinea corporis | DermNet

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Understanding ringworm

Ringworm is contagious! You can catch it through a cut in the skin, contact with infected skin or contaminated objects like towels and cosmetic products.

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Ringworm treatment

Anti-fungal creams kill the fungus responsible for ringworm symptoms and allow your skin to heal.

You can quickly relieve your symptoms with easily applied anti-fungal products in cream formulation. They penetrate deep enough to get to the cause of your infection but aren't aggressive to your skin. Start the treatment as early as possible to prevent ringworm from infecting other areas of your skin.

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Preventing ringworm

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Avoid touching infected areas of your skin. This can spread the infection to other areas.

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Wash your hands regularly, including after using anti-fungal treatment creams.

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Avoid excessive sweating, humidity and warmth. These conditions are ideal for fungal growth.

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Ringworm can affect animals, too! Get your pets checked for ringworm by a vet, especially if you notice missing patches of fur. Stay away from animals infected with ringworm.

Facts about ringworm

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You don’t need to feel alarmed: despite its name ringworm has nothing to do with worms!

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Ringworm is a fungal infection and requires antifungal medication to get rid of the infection.

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You can help prevent ringworm through regular body exfoliation. In this way you deprive fungus of its food source.

Frequently Asked Questions:

    Is ringworm caused by worms?

    No! Ringworm is a fungal skin infection, and has nothing to do with worms. It gets its name from the ring-shaped rash that develops on your skin from the fungal infection.

    Is ringworm contagious?

    Yes, ringworm is contagious and can be transmitted from pets and farm animals to humans as well as from human to human. For tips on how to lower your risk of ringworm and stop it from spreading, visit our prevention page.

    Can animals get ringworm?

    Yes. If your pet has patches of missing fur, it could be ringworm. Check your family and other pets for signs of the infection and take your pet to the vet as soon as possible. If you come across an animal that you think is infected you should stay away to avoid getting the infection yourself.

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