At Monarch Medicine Urgent Care, we know how unsettling it can be when unusual changes occur to your skin. One common but often misunderstood condition is ringworm—a highly contagious fungal infection that requires prompt attention. Despite its name, ringworm has nothing to do with worms. Let’s explore its symptoms, so you know what to watch for and when to seek care.
What Is Ringworm?
Ringworm, medically known as tinea, is a skin infection caused by fungi that thrive on keratin, the protein in your skin, hair, and nails. The infection gets its name from the distinctive circular rash it often creates, but its symptoms can vary depending on the area it affects.
Common Symptoms of Ringworm
1. Ring-Shaped Rash
- The most recognizable symptom is a red, scaly, circular rash.
- The rash often has raised edges with clear or less inflamed skin in the center, giving it a ring-like appearance.
- It may spread outward while healing in the center, creating a distinctive pattern.
2. Itching and Irritation
- Ringworm often causes persistent itching, which can be mild to severe.
- Scratching the affected area can worsen irritation and lead to secondary infections.
3. Scaling and Peeling Skin
- The infected area may become dry, flaky, and rough to the touch.
- In some cases, you may notice cracks in the skin or even small blisters.
4. Hair Loss (Scalp Ringworm)
- When ringworm affects the scalp (tinea capitis), it can cause patchy hair loss in the affected areas.
- You may also notice tenderness or swelling on the scalp.
5. Thickened or Discolored Nails (Nail Ringworm)
- Ringworm of the nails (tinea unguium) can make nails brittle, thickened, or discolored.
- Infected nails may appear yellow, white, or brown and can become loose over time.
6. Redness and Swelling (Feet and Groin)
- On the feet (athlete’s foot), you may see redness, swelling, or cracking between the toes.
- In the groin area (jock itch), symptoms often include redness, itching, and scaling in the folds of the skin.
How Ringworm Symptoms Vary by Location
- Scalp (Tinea Capitis): Hair loss, scaly patches, and small black dots where hair has broken off.
- Body (Tinea Corporis): Classic circular rash that spreads outward.
- Feet (Tinea Pedis/Athlete’s Foot): Cracking or peeling between the toes, sometimes with a burning sensation.
- Groin (Tinea Cruris/Jock Itch): Itchy, red rash in the folds of the groin and inner thigh.
- Nails (Tinea Unguium): Thickened, discolored nails that may become brittle or crumbly.
When to Seek Care for Ringworm Symptoms
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, especially if they worsen or don’t improve with over-the-counter treatments, it’s time to visit Monarch Medicine Urgent Care.
Our experienced team provides:
- Expert evaluation to confirm the diagnosis.
- Personalized treatment plans, including topical and oral antifungals as needed.
- Guidance to prevent the spread of infection to others.
Compassionate Care for Your Skin
At Monarch Medicine, we’re here to provide answers and effective solutions. We understand that skin conditions like ringworm can cause discomfort and frustration, which is why we focus on delivering compassionate, patient-centered care. From quick diagnosis to tailored treatment, our goal is to help you feel better and regain your confidence.
Let us show you how healthcare should feel—supportive, understanding, and centered entirely on you.
We’re here to help you feel better today and every day.
Have questions? Visit our Contact Us page.
Learn about effective treatment options for ringworm at CDC’s official guide to ringworm treatment.
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