About this topic
Ringworm is a skin infection. It is caused by a germ. It is not caused by a worm. The infected skin is often shaped like a ring with reddish edges. The center may be flaky, dry, and itchy. You can have ringworm on all parts of your body. Jock itch is the name for ringworm in your groin area. ‚
This infection spreads easily from one person to another. You can get it by touching other people or by touching things that they have touched. The germs can also be spread by pets. ‚
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What are the causes?
A fungus causes ringworm. The fungus often grows in warm, moist places. It may be found in tanning beds, swimming pools, showers, and locker rooms. It lives best on parts of the body where the skin is warm and damp like the groin or between the toes. ‚
What can make this more likely to happen?
You may be more at risk if you come in contact with someone who has jock itch. Young people and adult males are more likely to get jock itch. Athletes foot may spread to the groin and cause jock itch. People who play sports, like wrestling and football, may be more likely to get ringworm. ‚
What are the main signs?
- Rash in the groin, upper and inner thigh
- Red patches on your skin that:
- Look like a ring with darker red edges
- Itch and burn
- Are scaly, cracked, or raised
- Have blisters that ooze
How does the doctor diagnose this health problem?
Your doctor will look at your skin to see if you have a ring-shaped rash. The doctor may scrape the skin and look at it under a microscope. A skin culture may be done to make sure it is ringworm. ‚
How does the doctor treat this health problem?
Most often, ringworm can be treated at home with over-the-counter drugs. Sometimes, the doctor will order drugs to clear up the infection. ‚
What drugs may be needed?
The doctor may order drugs to: ‚
- Fight an infection
- Kill the fungus
- Help with itching
What problems could happen?
- Infection
- Open sores
- Scarring
What can be done to prevent this health problem?
- Wash your hands regularly. Wash for 20 seconds with soap and running water.
- Clean exercise equipment at the gym before you use it.
- Wear slippers or sandals in public areas like spas, locker rooms, and gym showers.
- Keep your groin clean. Dry it well before putting on underwear and clothing.
- Use a drying powder after showering or bathing.
- Do not share personal items like towels, clothing, or sports equipment.
- Wash athletic supporters often.
- Do not touch your pets if they have bald spots. Take them to the vet to check for ringworm.
- Use talcum powder to control sweaty feet and hands.
- Change your socks and underwear each day.
- Watch other members of your family carefully for signs of ringworm. It is very easy to catch ringworm from other people.
Where can I learn more?
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ‚
http://www.cdc.gov/nczved/divisions/dfbmd/diseases/dermatophytes/ ‚
http://www.cdc.gov/bam/body/locker_boys.html ‚
KidsHealth ‚
http://kidshealth.org/teen/infections/fungal/ringworm.html ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚