1. Location Matters
Whether you're buying a house or trying to identify ringworm, location matters. Ringworm is a skin rash caused by several different types of fungus that goes by different names, depending on where on the body the rash presents. Athlete's foot affects the soles of the feet. Jock itch affects the groin and thighs. Scalp ringworm occurs most often on the scalps of children. Finally, body ringworm can occur anywhere else on the body.
2. Identify Athlete's Foot
Take a look at the soles of your feet. If you find patches of scaly skin with or without redness and itching, you probably have the form of ringworm known as athlete's foot. If you have a severe case, you may also see cracking or blisters on the soles of your feet. Athlete's foot commonly spreads in locker rooms where people are prone to walking around barefoot on moist surfaces. If you're a regular at a gym, keep a pair of flip-flops on while in the locker room--especially in the shower area--to avoid direct contact with the floor.
3. Identify Jock Itch
Jock itch is more common in men than in women, but women are susceptible as well. Jock itch typically starts in the folds of skin in the groin area and sometimes spreads to the tops of the thighs. As with athlete's foot, you'll see scaly patches, but they'll have pink edges, not red. Jock itch--as its name implies--is generally very itchy and uncomfortable.
4. Identify Scalp Ringworm
Scalp ringworm is the most serious type of ringworm. If you have a child who is scratching her head, suspect scalp ringworm. Scalp ringworm is very common among children, and it is highly contagious. Examine the scalp to look for scaly, pink-tinged patches. Other signs to look for include patches of hair loss, with or without the rash, and inflamed pus-filled patches. Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly after checking the scalp.
5. When in Doubt Call Your Doctor
Most types of ringworm can be effectively treated with over-the-counter antifungal creams, but if you are unsure whether your skin rash is ringworm or some other condition, check with your doctor before applying any topical treatments. Depending on the severity of the condition, you may need a prescription antifungal or, in the case of scalp ringworm with pus, an antibiotic.
