Ringworm, despite its name, is not caused by a worm but by a fungal infection known as dermatophytosis. This common condition affects the skin, scalp, or nails, presenting as a red or silvery ring-like rash that can be scaly, itchy, and inflamed. On brown and black skin, the rash may appear less noticeable.
Symptoms of Ringworm
The symptoms of ringworm vary depending on the affected area:
- Skin: A ring-like red or silvery rash that may be scaly, itchy, and inflamed. In more severe cases, the rings may multiply, grow in size, merge together, and blisters or pus-filled sores may form around the rings. nhsinform.scot
- Scalp (Tinea Capitis): Small patches of scaly skin on the scalp, which may be sore, accompanied by patchy hair loss and itchiness. nhsinform.scot
Causes and Transmission
Ringworm is caused by a type of fungi that can be passed on through close contact with:
- Infected individuals or animals: Direct skin-to-skin contact with someone who has ringworm or with animals, such as dogs and cats, that carry the fungus.
- Contaminated objects: Sharing items like towels, clothes, sheets, combs, or other personal items that have been in contact with the fungus.
- Infected soil: Although less common, contact with soil containing the ringworm fungus can lead to infection.
It’s important to note that ringworm can affect anyone, but children are more susceptible, especially to scalp infections.
Preventing Spread
To prevent the spread of ringworm:
- Personal Hygiene: Wash affected skin daily, dry it carefully, and keep it dry. Clean your bath or shower after use.
- Avoid Sharing Personal Items: Do not share towels, bedding, or clothes with someone who has a fungal infection.
- Pet Care: If you think your pet has ringworm, take it to the vet. If your pet is treated quickly, you’ll be less likely to catch it.
- School Attendance: Children with ringworm can go to school or nursery once they have started treatment. Inform the school or nursery about the infection.
NHS Information on Ringworm
The NHS in Scotland has developed some very helpful and comprehensive Information on Ringworm if further advice is require.
Help at the Pharmacy
Treatment depends on where the ringworm is on your body and severity of the infection:
- Skin Infections: Most cases can be treated using over-the-counter antifungal creams, gels, or sprays available at pharmacies. These treatments are typically applied daily to the affected areas for 2 to 4 weeks.
- Finish the Course: It is crucial to continue using the medication for the recommended period of time even if it is looking better, because any remaining fungal infection would start to thrive again and the ringworm symptoms will come back. So finish the course of treatment to ensure the infection is fully eradicated.
- Scalp Infections: The pharmacist will most likely refer you to a doctor for prescription treatment.
- Nail Infections: Fungal nail infections can be treated with antifungal nail paint, but often require antifungal tablets from the doctor, which tend to work better than nail paints. nhsinform.scot
In cases where the skin is very red and itchy, a pharmacist may provide hydrocortisone 1% cream to use once or twice a day alongside the antifungal treatment. However, hydrocortisone should not be used for longer than 7 days and should not be used on its own.
When to See a GP
Consult a General Practitioner (GP) if:
- Ringworm has not improved after using the antifungal medicine recommended by a pharmacist.
- You have ringworm on your scalp, as this typically requires prescription antifungal tablets and/or a medicated shampoo. The antifungal tablets, such as terbinafine or griseofulvin, are taken once a day for 4 weeks. An antifungal shampoo may also be recommended to prevent the spread of infection.
- You have a weakened immune system, for example, from chemotherapy, steroids, or diabetes.
- Nail Infections: Fungal nail infections can be treated with antifungal nail paint, but often require antifungal tablets from the doctor, which tend to work better than nail paints.
Summary
By following these guidelines, ringworm can be effectively treated and its spread minimized, ensuring a quick return to normal activities.