What Are Ring Worms?

Ringworm is a skin infection caused by a fungus. It is not --- as the name implies --- caused by a worm. This infection got its name due to how it sometimes appears on the skin as a ring, with a raised defined line encircling normal skin color. Ringworm can affect the skin, scalp, groin (jock itch), feet (athlete's foot) or nails.

Description of Ringworm

• Ringworm can develop in many areas, including the hair and scalp.

  In addition to the ring appearance, ringworm of the body may also present as itchy, raised and scaly patches that sometimes blister. Ringworm of the foot (athlete's foot) usually appears between the toes and is evidenced by scaling or cracking of the skin. Ringworm of the scalp begins as a small pimple but develops into scaly, bald patches. Sometimes the scalp also develops crusty yellow patches and causes hair to become brittle and easily break. In ringworm of the body and scalp, as the rash expands, more patches might develop and overlap. Ringworm of the nails presents differently. It causes the nails to become thick, crumbly and discolored.

How It is Spread

• Cats can develop and spread ringworm.

  Ringworm is highly infectious and can be contracted through direct skin-to-skin contact with an infected individual. It is also spread through contaminated items such as clothing or combs. Another common method of contracting ringworm is to pet and play with an infected animal. This is especially true with cats due to their susceptibility to the fungus. Ringworm fungi grow in warm, moist areas. Therefore, if you often have moistness such as sweat in certain body areas or develop minor nail, skin or scalp injuries, you are more vulnerable to contracting the fungus. Ringworm is infectious until the lesion begins to shrink.

Caring for Ringworm

• If you develop ringworm, first attempt to treat it at home. Keep your skin clean and dry and use clean sheets and pajamas every day during the infection. Purchase over-the-counter anti-fungal powders, lotions or creams that contain miconazole or clotrimazole. Ask your pharmacist if you are unsure of which product to purchase. If you have pets, consult with your veterinarian for ringworm pet treatment.

Warning Signs for Ringworm

• If you develop signs of an infection, contact your physician.

  Some warning signs for ringworm indicate that you should consult with your physician. Call your physician if you develop any sign of infection such as red streaking, pus, fever, warmth to the touch and swelling. You should also consult with her if the condition does not improve after a month of treating it at home. She may prescribe anti-fungal prescription medication, such as ketaconazole. If you have an infection, you might also need an antibiotic prescription.