Symptoms of a Ringworm Infection

Ringworm is a fungal skin infection that is commonly characterized by an itchy, circular rash. It is caused by parasitic microorganisms that live on the outer layer of the skin. Ringworm is contagious and can be contracted from a human, animal, object or infected soil. The infection is normally mild and can be quickly remedied with anti-fungal cream. Symptoms of a ringworm infection should be treated quickly in order to keep the infection from spreading.

Itchy, Circular Rash

Ringworm infection earned its name from one of its most common symptoms: an itchy, circular rash. This red rash resembles a worm coiled under the skin. It is often inflamed, causing the circle to rise higher than the healthy areas of the skin. Sometimes, there is more than one circle, and they can overlap. Touching, rubbing and scratching the site of the infection can cause the circular rash to spread.

Bald Patches

Sometimes, ringworm infection presents itself on the head or other parts of the body that are covered in hair. Bald patches may develop at the site of the infection, although this is only temporary and will disappear as soon as the infection is treated. When animals contract ringworm infection, a bald patch in the fur is often the easiest way to diagnose the condition.

Discharge

Ringworm infection is often a very itchy condition, which prompts patients to scratch the affected area. However, excessive scratching can lead to a secondary infection. Discharge or pus is a sign of a bacterial infection and should be treated immediately by a physician. The best way to avoid this discharge is to refrain from scratching the ringworm outbreak.

Fingernail/Toenail Changes

Occasionally, ringworm infection can develop under the fingernails or toenails. Also known as onychomycosis, this form of ringworm can cause discoloration and crumbling of the nails. Anti-fungal cream is applied to ringworm of the nails, just as it is applied to ringworm infections on other parts of the body.

Warm Skin

An itchy rash that is warm to the touch is sometimes a sign of ringworm infection. Warm skin can simply be the result of the inflammation of the rash. However, warm skin is also a symptom of a secondary bacterial infection. Patients should avoid scratching the skin, as this can increase the inflammation and lead to further infection. Those who have a warm skin infection as well as a fever should seek medical attention as soon as possible.

References

• MedlinePlus on Ringworm
• Mayo Clinic on Ringworm
• American Chronicle; "Ringworm Under Your Nails"