Ringworm, or dermatophytosis or tinea, is a common fungal infection that causes itchy, red sores on the skin that may partially heal into a red ring with a pale center. The condition is not associated with a worm and gets its name because it usually appears in a ring or worm-like shape on the skin. When ringworm develops on the body, the condition is called tinea corporis. When the infection develops on the scalp, it is known as tinea capitis. Ringworm is very contagious but responds well to antifungal medications and lifestyle changes.
Step 1
Change your bed linens and wash your clothing in soap and hot water after every use while you are treating ringworm. The fungus responsible for causing ringworm can survive for extended periods on clothing and linens, leading to reinfection and interfering with treatment. Do not share personal items with anyone else in your home.
Step 2
Choose natural fabrics, such as cotton, over synthetic materials, and change your clothes if they become sweaty. Natural fabrics encourage air circulation and help keep your skin dry, thereby making your body less hospitable to fungi. The American Academy of Family Physicians recommends exposing your skin to the air as much as possible and suggests wearing sandals, flip-flops or other open-toed shoes.
Step 3
Wash your hair and body daily with soap and warm water, and then dry your skin thoroughly before dressing. Do not reuse towels if you have ringworm, and do not share towels with other people.
Step 4
Use antifungal creams to treat ringworm on your body. Topical antifungal medications, such as clotrimazole and tolnaftate, are available over the counter. The Mayo Clinic recommends applying over-the-counter medications once or twice each day for at least two weeks.
Step 5
Consult a doctor if your symptoms persist after four weeks of using over-the-counter medications. You may require treatment with a prescription-strength topical medication, such as butenafine, ciclopirox or terbinafine.
Step 6
Cover affected areas with a bandage and clothing to prevent spreading the infection to other areas of your body. Keeping your ringworm site covered will also prevent spreading the fungus to others and will ensure your topical medications do not rub off your skin, according to USA Today's Health Encyclopedia.
Step 7
Treat widespread infections or scalp infections with oral antifungals, such as itraconazole, fluconazole or ketoconazole. The Mayo Clinic warns that side effects associated with oral antifungal medications may be severe and can include rash, gastrointestinal problems or liver abnormalities.
Tips and Warnings
- Ringworm of the body appears four to 10 days after contact, and scalp ringworm appears 10 to 14 days after exposure to the fungus, according to the Director of Health Promotion and Education.
- Avoid direct contact with anyone who has ringworm to prevent reinfection. Also, avoid walking barefoot on damp floors, such as public showers and locker rooms. The American Academy of Family Physicians warns that fungal infections can be serious in anyone with HIV or a weakened immune system.
Things You'll Need
- Over-the-counter antifungal cream
