What Is Ringworm?
Worms don’t cause ringworm. Rather, this superficial skin infection, also known as tinea, is caused by fungi called dermatophytes. Fungi are microscopic organisms that can live off the dead tissues of your skin, hair, and nails, much like a mushroom can grow on the bark of a tree.

Ringworm is characterized by a red ring of small blisters or a red ring of scaly skin that grows outward as the infection spreads. Though children are especially susceptible to catching ringworm, it can affect adults as well.

What Causes Ringworm?
Ringworm is caused by a fungus that grows on the skin. Once the fungus is established, it spreads out in rings. The center of the ring may clear up, while a new ring of infection develops at the edge of the old ring.

Children are most likely to get ringworm. Ringworm of the scalp can spread from child to child when children share hats, combs, or brushes. Ringworm of the body can be spread on towels, clothing, or sports equipment. Personal hygiene is important in preventing the spread of ringworm. Dogs and cats can be infected with ringworm, too, and they can pass it to people through direct contact.

What Are the Treatments for Ringworm?
Your doctor may prescribe an antifungal medication. These drugs work to control the fungus and prevent it from coming back. You may spread the antifungal product on your skin as a medicated shampoo, powder, cream, foam, spray, or lotion; or you may take a pill so the medicine can spread throughout your body. Your doctor may prescribe a combination of these treatments.

Many antifungal medications, such as miconazole or clotrimazole, are available over the counter at a less expensive price. Ask your doctor whether you can use one of these or whether prescription-strength medicine is necessary.

How Can I Prevent Ringworm?
Good personal hygiene helps prevent the spread of ringworm. Teach your child to practice good hygiene and generally not to share combs, brushes, or hats. Children also shouldn’t share towels, clothes, or sports equipment that hasn’t been properly cleaned.

Ringworm also can be transmitted from an infected dog or cat, so avoid animals who look mangy or have bald spots in their coats. If you have an animal that you think may have ringworm, take it to your veterinarian for treatment.