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Check if it's ringworm. The main symptom of ringworm is a rash. It may look red or darker than the surrounding skin, depending on your skin tone. The rash may be scaly, dry, swollen or itchy. Ringworm can appear anywhere on the body, including the scalp (tinea capitis) and groin (jock itch).
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Signs and symptoms of ringworm may include:
•A scaly ring-shaped area, typically on the buttocks, trunk, arms and legs
•Itchiness
•A clear or scaly area inside the ring, perhaps with a scattering of bumps whose color ranges from red on white skin to reddish, purplish, brown or gray on black and brown skin
•Slightly raised, expanding rings
•A round, flat patch of itchy skin
Talk to your doctor if you have a rash that doesn't begin to improve within two weeks of using an over-the-counter antifungal product. You may need prescription medication.
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Ringworm is a contagious fungal infection caused by common mold-like parasites that live on the cells in the outer layer of your skin. It can be spread in the following ways:
•Human to human. Ringworm often spreads by direct, skin-to-skin contact with an infected person.
•Animal to human. You can contract ringworm by touching an animal with ringworm. Ringworm can spread while petting or grooming dogs or cats. It's also fairly common in cows.
•Object to human. It's possible for ringworm to spread by contact with objects or surfaces that an infected person or animal has recently touched or rubbed against, such as clothing, towels, bedding and linens, combs, and brushes.
You're at higher risk of ringworm of the body if you:
•Live in a warm climate
•Have close contact with an infected person or animal
•Share clothing, bedding or towels with someone who has a fungal infection
•Participate in sports that feature skin-to-skin contact, such as wrestling
•Wear tight or restrictive clothing
A fungal infection rarely spreads below the surface of the skin to cause serious illness. But people with weak immune systems, such as those with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), may find it difficult to get rid of the infection.
Ringworm is difficult to prevent. The fungus that causes it is common, and the condition is contagious even before symptoms appear. Take these steps to reduce your risk of ringworm:
•Educate yourself and others. Be aware of the risk of ringworm from infected people or pets. Tell your children about ringworm, what to watch for and how to avoid infection.
•Keep clean. Wash your hands often. Keep shared areas clean, especially in schools, child care centers, gyms and locker rooms. If you participate in contact sports, shower right after practice or a match and keep your uniform and gear clean.
•Stay cool and dry. Don't wear thick clothing for long periods of time in warm, humid weather. Avoid excessive sweating.
•Avoid infected animals. The infection often looks like a patch of skin where fur is missing. If you have pets or other animals, ask your veterinarian to check them for ringworm.
•Don't share personal items. Don't let others use your clothing, towels, hairbrushes, sports gear or other personal items. And don't borrow such things.
Ringworm on your body is called tinea corporis. This type of ringworm affects your arms, legs, torso and face. Ringworm is treated with antifungal medication available either over the counter or as a prescription. Types of ringworm. Ringworm has different names based on where it appears on your body — and it can appear just about anywhere.
Dec 19, 2023 · Beard ringworm (tinea barbae). Symptoms include itchy, scaly red spots on the cheeks, chin, and upper neck of men with beards. These may cause hair to fall out and pustules to develop. It's fairly ...
Feb 26, 2024 · Body ringworm is a fungal infection that can affect anyone. It is important to understand the different stages of ringworm to identify the symptoms and seek appropriate treatment. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the stages of body ringworm, including the symptoms, causes, and treatment options for each stage.
Mar 11, 2024 · Ringworm of the body (tinea corporis) causes a rash on the arms, legs, and other exposed body areas. It typically starts with a small, scaly area on the skin that itches. The scaly area progresses quickly to form the classic ringworm rash, circular in shape with slightly raised edges.
Aug 27, 2024 · Ringworm is a fungal infection that causes a ring shape on the skin and other symptoms. Treatment may vary by the part of the body affected but typically involves oral or topical antifungals.
