Ringworm (Tinea)
(Diseases)
On this page, you will find everything you are looking for about ringworms.
What is a ringworm?
- Ringworm is a common,contagious fungal skin infection, especially in children, but it can affect all age groups. It is characterized by a circular or ring-shaped rash, often red or silvery in color, and accompanied by itching. It can affect any part of the body, including the scalp, feet, nails, and groin.
- What are the symptoms of ringworm?
- A red or silvery ring-like rash, with normal-looking skin in the center
- Itching in the affected areas
- Peeling and inflamed skin around the rings
- Cracks and flaking in the affected areas
Pus-filled blisters or sores (in severe cases)
- The rings may be slightly raised
- Symptoms of ringworm on the face and neck:
- May not always appear as rings
- Itching may be intense
Skin becomes dry and flaky, and may be swollen
- In the presence of a beard, hair loss or breakage may be noticeable in the affected areas
- Symptoms of ringworm on the hand:
Thickening of the skin on the palm and between the fingers
It may affect one hand or both, but it often appears on one side only.
- What causes ringworm?
- The main cause of ringworm is a fungal infection by dermatophytes—fungi that live on dead tissues, such as hair, nails, and the outer layers of the skin. It spreads through:
- Direct skin contact with an infected person or animal, especially cats, which are common carriers.
Sharing personal items like towels, bed linens, hairbrushes, or unwashed clothing.
Touching contaminated surfaces such as locker room floors, swimming pools, and public showers.
How is ringworm diagnosed?
- Ringworm is initially diagnosed through a clinical examination, where the doctor examines the affected skin to identify characteristic symptoms like the ring-shaped rash. Laboratory tests include:
- Potassium hydroxide (KOH) test: A small skin sample (scraping) is examined under a microscope.
- Fungal culture: A skin sample is cultured in a lab to detect and identify the fungus.
Skin biopsy: A small piece of affected skin is taken and examined microscopically.
How is ringworm treated?
- Treatment options for ringworm include:
- Topical antifungal medications: These come in the form of creams, ointments, or gels, typically used for 2–4 weeks as directed by a doctor.
Oral antifungal medications: Used in more severe or widespread infections, and in cases involving the scalp or nails.
- Tips during treatment:
- Keep the affected area clean and dry.
- Allow air to circulate around the affected area.
- Change underwear, socks, and shoes daily.
Avoid covering the affected area with bandages.
How can ringworm be prevented?
- Prevention tips include:
- Maintain personal hygiene, bathe regularly, and dry the body thoroughly after showering—especially in moist areas like between the toes, the groin, and under the breasts.
- Wash your hands after touching animals, soil, or infected areas.
- Do not share hairbrushes, shoes, clothing, towels, or bed linens with others, and wash them regularly.
- Clean bathrooms and floors after use, especially if someone in the household is infected.
- Regularly check pets for bald spots or skin infections.
- Wear clothes made of natural fibers (like cotton) instead of synthetic materials to reduce moisture.
- Change socks daily.
- Ensure feet are completely dry before putting on shoes.
- Wear footwear in public bathrooms or locker rooms.
- Avoid walking barefoot in public areas.
Regularly inspect your skin if you have been in direct contact with an infected person or animal.
What are the complications of ringworm?
There are potential complications associated with ringworm, including skin infections that can result from excessive scratching. Continuous scratching can lead to wounds or cracks, increasing the risk of secondary bacterial infections. Additionally, other skin conditions may develop, requiring further treatment.
When should you see a doctor?
- You should consult a doctor in the following cases:
- If symptoms do not improve after using topical antifungal treatments.
- If the infection persists or recurs after treatment.
- If the infection spreads to multiple areas of the body.
- If signs of inflammation appear, such as pus or discharge.
If you have a weakened immune system due to conditions such as chemotherapy or diabetes.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What factors increase the risk of getting ringworm?
- Walking barefoot in public places.
- Wearing tight shoes or socks for long periods.
- Poor personal hygiene.
- Weakened immune system.
- Small skin injuries or abrasions.
