It’s safe to say that you’ve likely heard of ringworm before. While many are aware of this fungal infection, many don’t know what it actually is!

Our AFC Urgent Care Bronx Webster Ave. team is here to help you feel a little more informed about this common skin condition, so keep reading!

What Is Ringworm?

Ringworm is a rash caused by a fungal infection. It’s usually an itchy, circular rash with clearer skin in the middle. Ringworm is a misnomer, as it gets its name because of its appearance—not because the presence of an actual worm.

Generally, ringworm spreads by direct skin-to-skin contact with an infected person or animal. We’ve listed its most common symptoms below.

Common Signs and Symptoms of Ringworm

• A scaly ring-shaped area, typically on the buttocks, trunk, arms and legs
• Itchiness
• A clear or scaly area inside the ring, perhaps with a scattering of bumps whose color ranges from red, brown to gray
• Slightly raised, expanding rings
• A round, flat patch of itchy skin
• Overlapping rings

Is Ringworm Dangerous?

Ringworm isn’t dangerous! Because ringworm is a topical fungal infection, it’s highly unlikely that the fungus would get below the surface of the skin, which would be the way it would cause serious complications.

In fact, ringworm is highly treatable. It’s most often treated with OTC anti-fungal topical medications. We’ve also listed some other effective ways to treat this fungal infection at home below.

Other Ways to Get Rid of Ringworm

• Let it breathe. Bandaging the rash locks in moisture and slows the healing process. Instead, wear comfortable, breathable clothes to speed healing and avoid spreading the rash to other people.
• Wash bedding daily. Because ringworm is highly contagious, you should wash your sheets daily to get rid of the infection faster. Fungal spores can transfer to your sheets and comforter, which could then spread to other parts of your body and cause the rash to take longer to heal.
• Change wet underwear and socks. If ringworm develops on your feet or groin area, keep these areas dry. If you sweat a lot during the day, bathe with an anti-fungal cleansing bar and then reapply your anti-fungal powder or lotion.

Have further questions about ringworm? If so, don’t hesitate to reach out to or visit our AFC Urgent Care Bronx Webster Ave. team today.