What do athlete’s foot, jock itch, and ringworm have in common? Well, none of them are caused by a worm. In fact, athlete’s foot and jock itch are actually two forms of ringworm, named after where they are found and who they frequently affect. Ringworm itself is named not for its cause, but for its most common symptom: circular rashes with raised, worm-like edges.
Ringworm infections are common and contagious, but they can usually be treated. We’ll discuss what ringworm is, what the symptoms look like in different parts of the body, treatment options, and how to prevent it.
So if it’s not worms, what is ringworm?
Ringworm is a common skin infection caused by fungi, mainly from the Trichophyton family. Children are more likely to get ringworm than adults depending on the environments they spend time in, but adults can often be asymptomatic carriers.
How do you get ringworm?
Ringworm can be transmitted through direct skin contact with an infected person or animal, as well as by touching shared objects or surfaces. This is partly why some types of ringworm have names like athlete’s foot and jock itch: Ringworm can be easily contracted in environments such as locker rooms where people are in close contact with exposed skin, dirty clothing, and shared surfaces.
Symptoms of ringworm: what it looks like and where it can appear
The symptoms of ringworm can vary depending on where it is on the body. It’s important to note that no matter where ringworm first appears, it can spread to any part of the body you touch if you don’t wash your hands thoroughly after touching an infected area. Ringworm symptoms usually appear within two weeks of exposure.
What a ringworm rash looks like
Ringworm usually (but not always) causes a telltale itchy skin rash. The rash is usually circular with a raised edge that may resemble a worm or the tunnels caused by scabies.
Typically, the rash starts small and grows outward. As it grows, the skin at the center of the rash may begin to return to a more normal appearance. The rash may be red or pink on lighter skin and brown or gray on darker skin.
Symptoms of ringworm on the feet (athlete’s foot)
On the feet, ringworm tends to affect the soles of the feet and the skin between the toes. The skin in these areas may not develop the distinctive ring-shaped rash, but instead may become scaly, peel or crack, or suddenly develop blisters. There may be an itching or burning sensation between the toes or on the soles of the feet, and the skin between the toes may soften and eventually begin to break.
Symptoms of ringworm in the groin (jock itch)
Ringworm in the groin tends to look more like the typical rash, but the ring shape may not be present due to its location. Ringworm in this area tends to start where the leg joins the body, before spreading to the inner thighs, waist and buttocks.
Symptoms of ringworm on nails.
In some cases, ringworm can affect the fingernails or toenails. Toenails are more likely to become infected as a result of untreated athlete’s foot. When ringworm infects a nail, the first sign is that the tissue under the nail begins to thicken. Over time, the nail begins to discolor, thicken, and separate from the tissue beneath. From there, the nail begins to break.
Symptoms of ringworm on the scalp or beard.
Ringworm may develop on the head. Ringworm of the scalp is particularly common in children and can spread from the scalp to the cheeks and chin. In adults, ringworm can appear on the beard, but this is considered rare.
In many cases, the telltale scaly, itchy rash is even more obvious in these areas, creating areas of baldness or stubble. The skin may flake off like dandruff and the scalp may become swollen or painful.
Does ringworm go away on its own?
Ringworm may go away on its own, but this can take weeks to months. Ringworm remains contagious as long as the rash is present, and if left untreated, it can become more serious. Talking to a doctor and starting recommended treatment is the best way to recover from ringworm and prevent it from spreading.
How to treat ringworm with antifungals and careful hygiene
Step 1: Get a ringworm diagnosis from a doctor or clinician
If you or your child has a rash, talking to a doctor is key to successful treatment. There are many common conditions that can cause similar rashes and they are not all treated the same.
A doctor or clinician can usually diagnose ringworm by doing a visual exam and asking about your symptoms. If necessary, they will gently scrape a sample of skin from the affected area to check for fungus.
Step 2: Use ringworm medication as directed
For cases of ringworm that are mild and limited to the skin, the doctor will usually recommend an over-the-counter antifungal cream that is applied for 3 to 6 weeks.
For more severe cases of ringworm or cases that affect the nails, scalp, or beard, your doctor will prescribe an oral antifungal medication. If you have ringworm of the scalp, your doctor may also recommend that you and the rest of your family use an antifungal shampoo to make sure it doesn’t spread.
Step 3: Manage symptoms and prevent the spread of ringworm
Ringworm can be very itchy. To control this and reduce the risk of spreading ringworm throughout the body by scratching, apply a cold compress to the affected area. Keep in mind that it is important to use a clean compress each time for each part of the body.
If blisters are present, add Burow’s solution (5% aluminum subacetate) to compresses or baths to soothe the blisters and dry them. Do not use steroid-based medications for ringworm symptoms, and be sure to talk to your doctor about using any over-the-counter remedies.
Other hygiene tips to limit the spread of ringworm and avoid reinfection include:
- Keep your skin clean and dry
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after touching affected areas.
- Do not share or reuse clothing, towels, or sports equipment without washing them first.
- Wear shoes when walking through gyms, swimming pools, and public locker rooms.
Talk to a doctor if you notice symptoms of ringworm or another infection.
If you suspect you have ringworm, it is best to talk to a doctor as soon as possible. Starting treatment helps limit the spread of ringworm, reduces discomfort, and prevents symptoms from worsening.
The first step of treatment is to obtain a diagnosis. With Virtuwell, we’ve made it easier and more affordable to get the care you need when you need it. Virtuwell’s primary care doctors and expert doctors can diagnose and prescribe care for many skin conditions online, including ringworm. We are here to help you or your child feel better as soon as possible.
