Contact with items that have been handled by or used by an infected person, such as combs, towels, clothing, or bedding. Ringworm causes red, scaly circular patches with raised edges. As the rash grows the patches may become smoother in the center. Multiple ring-shaped patches can develop if the infection spreads untreated.
The patches morph into the circular ring shapes once the rash has grown to about half an inch in diameter. Typically the rash stops growing when it gets to about one inch in diameter. Your baby may have one or many of these patches, which may or may not be itchy and uncomfortable.
Keep in mind that hair may be lost in the affected area, especially if the ringworm rash is on the scalp. In some severe cases the infection can cause scarring and permanent hair loss. It can be easy to confuse certain types of ringworm with dandruff, eczema , cradle cap , or another skin condition.
This condition more often affects the toenails than the fingernails. This occurs more often in adolescents and adults rather than young children. Symptoms of nail ringworm may include: thickening of the ends of the nails yellow color to the nails Body ringworm tinea corporis This skin infection is characterized by a ring-like rash anywhere on the body or the face.
It occurs in all ages but is seen more frequently in children. It is more common in warmer climates. The symptoms of body ringworm may include: red, circular lesion with raised edges the middle of the lesion may become less red as the lesion grows itching of the affected area The symptoms of ringworm may resemble other skin conditions. How is ringworm diagnosed? How we treat ringworm Because the fungi can live indefinitely on the skin, recurrences of ringworm are likely.
Treatment for scalp ringworm tinea capitis may include: oral anti-fungal medication, which is usually prescribed for four to eight weeks; some children require longer treatment use of a special shampoo to help eliminate the fungus If a kerion — a large, tender, swollen lesion — is present, your child's physician may order additional medications such as steroids to help reduce the swelling.
Tinea Versicolor. The commitment and compassion with which we care for all children and families is matched only by the pioneering spirit of discovery and innovation that drives us to think differently, to find answers, and to build a better tomorrow for children everywhere. Kevin B. It can be quite itchy. It often does not have the usual ring-like appearance. If you think your child has ringworm, take them to see your GP or to your local pharmacy and, if appropriate, show the affected area to the pharmacist.
Ringworm can be treated effectively with most antifungal medications. These are usually in the form of 'over-the-counter' creams, but nail-bed and scalp infections most often require prescription oral treatments. Early treatment is important and your doctor or pharmacist will be able to advise which treatment is needed.
Creams should be applied to the area for an extra week after the rash has cleared. If the rash persists despite a few weeks of treatment, it is important to be seen by your GP to ensure both the diagnosis and treatment is appropriate. Ringworm is spread by contact with infected humans, animals and contaminated objects and surfaces. Children are most likely to be infected by other people who already have ringworm, via school playgrounds, gyms, contaminated clothing, bath mats, towels, damp floors and showers.
Because ringworm is very contagious, it can be difficult to prevent. However, there are ways you can help your child avoid being infected:. There is no need to keep your child home from school, but the rash should be covered by clothing or a dressing to avoid spreading ringworm to others. Avoid being barefoot in public showers; public swimming pools can be used once treatment has been started.
Avoid sharing towels. What can I do to help? Do you recommend tea tree oil? Occasionally, an oral treatment is also needed — discuss this with your doctor or pharmacist. Some people find relief from tea tree oil, but we do not recommend tea tree oil as a treatment because it can cause skin inflammation.
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