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Ringworm services offered in Great Neck, NY
About one-fourth of the population develops a fungal infection called ringworm during their lifetime. If your child has a ring-shaped patch on their skin, see compassionate pediatric dermatologist Jonathan Trager, MD, at TeleDerm Kidz in Great Neck, New York. He can diagnose and treat ringworm to eliminate skin infections and bothersome symptoms. Schedule a telehealth dermatology evaluation with Dr. Trager by calling the office or booking an appointment online today.
Ringworm Q&A
What is ringworm?
Ringworm is a rash caused by a fungal infection. It often shows up as a circular rash that becomes itchy and scaly. Ringworm is similar to Athlete’s foot and jock itch. It spreads via skin-to-skin contact with an infected person or animal. Dr. Trager offers simple treatments that can eliminate the fungus.
What are the symptoms of ringworm?
Symptoms of ringworm include:
- Ring-like (circular) rash
- Itchy skin
- Scaly or slightly raised areas
- Red, purple, gray, or brown skin patches
- Overlapping rings on the skin
- Round patches of itchy skin
- Hair loss, including bald patches
Ringworm may affect your child’s trunk, buttocks, legs, arms, hands, scalp, or other areas. There are no worms involved in ringworm, despite its name.
How does ringworm spread?
Ringworm often spreads from person to person by skin-to-skin contact. Animals can get ringworm, which may spread to humans who pet them. Ringworm can also spread via contaminated surfaces, such as towels, bedding, mats, rugs, shared clothing, and brushes.
Risk factors for having ringworm include close contact with an infected animal or person, living in a warm climate, and participating in high-contact sports. Other risks include sweating a lot, having a weakened immune system, and sharing personal items.
While ringworm is difficult to prevent, taking precautions can help. Keep surfaces clean, wash your hands often, and avoid sharing personal items with other people.
How is ringworm diagnosed?
Dr. Trager often diagnoses ringworm by examining your child’s skin during a physical exam and discussing their lifestyle, medical history, and symptoms. He may take a sample of skin scrapings and look at them under a microscope.
How is ringworm treated?
Treating ringworm can include using over-the-counter treatments or prescription-strength antifungal medications. Your child can apply creams, lotions, ointments, antifungal shampoos, or powders to the affected area. Dr. Trager might recommend antifungal pills in severe cases.
It’s also helpful to disinfect your home, as ringworm fungus can live on surfaces for several months. Wash towels, clothes, and bedding thoroughly. Shower right after participating in contact sports and wear sandals or shoes in locker rooms and community showers.
After beginning treatment, ringworm may clear up within several weeks. It’s important to follow treatment recommendations as instructed to help prevent ringworm from returning. If your pets have ringworm, they should be treated as well.
Schedule a telehealth ringworm evaluation at TeleDerm Kidz by calling the office or booking online today.