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Key Points
- Ringworm, a prevalent fungal infection, can be contracted by both adults and children through direct contact, with symptoms including red, itchy, and scaly skin patches, typically in a ring shape.
- The infection can be effectively treated with over-the-counter antifungal creams, but it is essential to follow the package instructions for maximum effectiveness.
- Home remedies like tea tree oil, apple cider vinegar, and coconut oil can also help alleviate ringworm symptoms.
- If there's no improvement after two weeks of home treatment or if symptoms worsen, seeking medical attention is recommended to prevent complications such as dark marks, scarring, and hair loss.
- Preventing ringworm involves maintaining good personal hygiene, not sharing personal items, and being cautious in communal areas.
Ringworm is a common fungal infection that affects both adults and children, according to the CDC. It's contagious and can be easily transmitted through direct contact with an infected person, animal, or object. The good news is that you can usually treat ringworm at home using over-the-counter treatments and supplemental home remedies.
Identifying Ringworm
The symptoms of ringworm include red, itchy, and scaly patches on the skin, according to the CDC. These patches are usually ring-shaped, giving a name to this particular type of fungal rash. Common places to find ringworm, as noted by the CDC, include the feet, scalp, groin, and beard. Ringworm of the foot is often called athlete’s foot and is commonly associated with using a locker room or communal showers.
How to Care for Ringworm at Home
If you have ringworm, there are several things that you can use to help clear up the infection.
1. Use Over-The-Counter Antifungal Creams
The most common and effective way to treat ringworm at home is by using an over-the-counter antifungal cream, according to the CDC. These creams contain ingredients that help to kill the fungus that causes ringworm.
It is important to follow the package instructions when using over-the-counter antifungal creams. Usually, they will include instructions to wash the affected area with soap and water, dry it thoroughly, and then apply a thin layer of cream to the area. This process will repeat once or twice a day until the infection clears up.
2. Try Home Remedies
In addition to antifungal creams, there are several home remedies that you can try that may help alleviate some of your symptoms. Some of the most popular options listed at Medical News Today include:
- Tea tree oil (be sure to dilute the oil with a carrier oil like coconut oil)
- Apple cider vinegar (apply it to the affected area using a cotton ball)
- Garlic (crush a few cloves of garlic and apply the paste to the affected area twice a day, according to Medical News Today)
- Aloe vera
- Coconut oil
- Grapefruit seed extract (mix 1 drop of extract with a tablespoon of water and apply twice a day, according to Medical News Today)
- Turmeric (mix with a small amount of water to form a paste and apply, according to Medical News Today)
3. Avoid Spreading the Fungus
Ringworm is very contagious, according to the CDC. It is important to take proper care of the ringworm lesions and prevent the infection from spreading. Here are some tips to keep in mind if you have ringworm, as listed by the CDC:
- Keep the affected area clean and dry
- Don't share towels, clothing, or other personal items with others
- Wash your hands frequently
- Avoid scratching the affected area, as this can spread the infection
When to Seek Medical Attention for Ringworm
If you have been treating ringworm at home but have not seen any improvement after two weeks or symptoms are worsening, it’s time to see a doctor according to WebMD. They note that in some cases, ringworm can be difficult to treat and may require prescription medications or other interventions.
Complications of Untreated Ringworm
If left untreated ringworm infections can lead to complications and spread to others around you, according to the CDC. Some of the complications from an untreated ringworm infection include:
- Dark marks on your skin
- Scarring
- Hair loss
- Secondary infections if bacteria enter broken skin after itching
- Majocchi’s granuloma (a rare infection when the fungus makes its way into deep layers of the skin)
Where to Get Care For Ringworm
Urgent care clinics offer convenient and cost-effective care for most non-life-threatening conditions—including ringworm. You can use Solv to find and book appointments at urgent care clinics near you.
How to Prevent Ringworm
If you don’t have ringworm but want to take precautions to avoid getting it, the CDC recommends the following:
- Keep your skin clean and dry
- Wear shoes that allow air to circulate freely around your feet
- Don’t walk barefoot in areas like locker rooms or public showers
- Clip your fingernails and toenails short and keep them clean
- Change your socks and underwear at least once a day
- Don’t share clothing (especially hats), towels, sheets, or other personal items (like hair brushes) with someone who has ringworm
- Wash your hands with soap and running water after playing with pets, and if you suspect that your pet has ringworm, take it to see a veterinarian
- If you’re an athlete, shower immediately after your practice session or match, and keep all of your gear and uniforms clean. Don’t share sports gear (helmet, etc.) with other players
Recap of Key Points
Ringworm is caused by a fungal infection that can affect the skin, scalp, or nails. It is highly contagious and can spread between humans and animals, as well as from animals to humans. Good hygiene and cleaning practices are important for preventing ringworm, additionally, avoiding sharing personal items can help prevent the spread of ringworm. Over-the-counter antifungal creams are the most effective treatment, according to the CDC, but you can try home remedies in addition to this. Some common home remedies include tea tree oil, garlic, aloe vera, and apple cider vinegar. Many cases require prescription medication to resolve.
Frequently asked questions
What is ringworm and how is it transmitted?
Ringworm is a common fungal infection that can be transmitted through direct contact. It affects both adults and children.
What are the symptoms of ringworm?
Symptoms of ringworm include red, itchy, and scaly patches on the skin, often in a ring shape. It can appear on various parts of the body like the feet, scalp, groin, and beard.
How is ringworm treated?
Ringworm is typically treated with over-the-counter antifungal creams. It's important to follow the package instructions for the treatment to be effective. Home remedies can also help alleviate symptoms.
What home remedies can be used to treat ringworm?
Home remedies for ringworm include tea tree oil, apple cider vinegar, garlic, aloe vera, coconut oil, grapefruit seed extract, and turmeric.
When should I seek medical attention for ringworm?
If there's no improvement after two weeks of home treatment or if symptoms worsen, it's time to seek medical attention.
What complications can arise from untreated ringworm?
Untreated ringworm can lead to complications like dark marks on the skin, scarring, hair loss, secondary infections, and Majocchi’s granuloma.
Where can I seek treatment for ringworm?
Urgent care clinics are a convenient place to seek treatment for ringworm.
How can I prevent ringworm?
Ringworm can be prevented by maintaining good personal hygiene, not sharing personal items, and taking precautions in communal areas.
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