Ringworm is really nothing like it sounds--it's not a worm and it isn't a disease caused by a worm. It's the name for a fungal infection that causes itchy, dry and scaly skin. You can get the infection when the fungus grows--it loves areas that are moist and warm. Ringworm can usually be diagnosed just by looking at the skin and detecting the signs--as long as you know what to look for.
Step 1
Look for red patches of skin. Any old rash isn't necessarily ringworm--but this fungus has some distinct characteristics. The skin can appear scaly and red, may be thickened or raised, and feels itchy, says the U.S. National Library of Medicine. These patches of irritated skin are often circular in shape, and the border may be slightly darker--making it look sort of like a ring.
Step 2
Try to spot blistering. Another characteristic of the ringworm rash is that it may begin to blister. These lesions may also ooze pus or fluid, says the NLM.
Step 3
Check your hair. Ringworm that affects the scalp (or the face on men) will cause hair loss. Bald spots will appear on the scalp, or even in the beard.
Step 4
Look at your nails. Another tell-tale sign of a ringworm infection are nails that are affected. Nails infected with ringworm become thick, change their color and start crumbling, says the NLM.
Step 5
Get a doctor's diagnosis. Head to your doctor's office to confirm your suspicions after you've carefully inspected your rash, changes in nails and bald patches. Usually, a doctor can tell by looking that ringworm is the cause. He may also examine the rash with a special blue light, or take a sample of the skin cells and study them with a microscope, says the NLM.
Tips and Warnings
- You can usually treat ringworm yourself using over-the-counter antifungal treatments without a doctor's care.
- You can get ringworm from pets, so take care to steer clear and keep your hands clean when dealing with a pet with ringworm.
