Ringworm and Other Common Infections
The fungi kingdom is vast and diverse, and knowledge about how these organisms interact with humans is continually expanding. Fungi are essential to the world: they assist in breaking down organic matter in the environment, are used in processes like bread- and beer-making, and are consumed as delicious and nutritious foods, including mushrooms, morels, and truffles. Certain species of fungi have also revolutionized medicine and science, such as penicillium, which is the source of the antibiotic penicillin.
Scientists estimate that of the millions of existing fungal species, only a few hundred of them can cause diseases. A healthy immune system is proficient in protecting us from many threatening fungi, so those with a compromised immune system can be at higher risk for developing infections. However, anyone can potentially develop a fungal infection, especially on places in the body that trap moisture or have lots of friction. Due to the nature of these infections, it’s important to seek treatment to resolve the infection and prevent spreading it to others.
Common fungal infections affect the surface of our skin, nails, and mucous membranes. These are typically not severe, although they can cause itchy discomfort and can be recurring.
Ringworm is among the most common of these infections, which is caused by a fungus (not a worm) and named for its red, often ring-shaped appearance. Ringworm may be called something different depending on the area of the body it infects, including the feet (athlete’s foot) or groin and upper thigh area (jock itch). Ringworm also commonly appears on the scalp, hands, or nails. This type of infection is contagious and can be spread through skin-to-skin contact or shared spaces, like locker rooms or gyms.
It might be difficult to determine whether a rash is ringworm or another skin condition, like eczema or psoriasis. “Location is key,” shares Dr. Michael Chung, a board-certified dermatologist with Skin Cancer & Cosmetic Dermatology Center. “Look for an itchy, pink, flaking, or scaly rash in susceptible areas that are warm and moist, such as the feet, groin, upper thighs, armpits, and abdomen.”
Another common superficial fungal infection is candidiasis, a yeast infection that can affect the skin, genitals, mouth, and throat. Yeast (candida), a type of fungus, naturally occurs on the body. Healthy bacteria help keep yeast production in balance, but if this balance is disrupted, an overgrowth of yeast can cause an infection. Certain triggers that might disrupt the natural balance include hormonal changes from pregnancy or taking antibiotics, steroids, or oral contraceptives.
If you aren’t sure whether an irritation is caused by a fungal infection or something else, visit your healthcare provider to diagnose and develop the best treatment plan.
Treatment Options
Thankfully, superficial fungal infections can be treated. Topical antifungal medications are available over-the-counter, and oral medications may be used to treat infections that are severe, extensive, or resistant to topical treatments. When dealing with a confirmed fungal infection, physicians recommend avoiding anti-itch creams. “Avoid use of topical steroids as these may only temporarily mask the rash severity before it rebounds and becomes worse than before,” Dr. Chung says. “If over-the-counter antifungal creams are not working or the rash involves an extensive area, contact your nearest provider for further assessment and treatment.”
For best results, it’s important to stay on top of treatments for an active infection – usually two or more weeks of daily topical application or an oral pill. “Fungal infections often require several weeks worth of treatment for complete resolution of symptoms,” shares Aidree Cook, a physician’s assistant with Erlanger Express Care. “Patients receiving topical or oral therapy should be sure they are taking the medication as directed by their healthcare provider.” Even if you see results a few days after applying medication, be sure to follow the recommended treatment plan to the end.
Stopping the Spread
Sometimes, even the most common fungal infections can be difficult to beat and may recur over time. Dr. Todd Rudolph, medical director of AFC Urgent Care, explains, “Some infections may recur due to incomplete treatment. Some recur because they are difficult to eradicate. Others recur because you may be exposing yourself again to the fungal source.” Because of this, prevention and effective treatment are essential in stopping the spread of fungal infections.
For starters, practicing good hygiene can help prevent outbreaks of ringworm and other fungal infections.
- Keep your skin clean and dry, especially between the toes
- Promptly shower and change into clean, dry clothes after sweating, exercising, or participating in contact sports
- Wear shower shoes in public showers, locker rooms, or pool areas
- Change socks and underwear daily, or as soon as they become damp
In Public Spaces
Fungi thrive in damp and warm areas, making public areas like gyms, swimming pools, and showers common places to be exposed to infection. Athletes should be sure to wipe down all equipment before and after use. To prevent spreading an active infection, Dr. Rudolph says, “Firstly, treat the infection when needed and then cover the infection if you will be in close contact with others.”
Covering the skin and mouth is a good practice for lifestyles of all types, especially those who regularly work outdoors, like gardeners or construction workers. “We know that many fungi thrive in soil,” Cook says. “These fungi can cause a wide range of symptoms but predominately affect the respiratory tract in humans.” Wearing protective equipment like masks, gloves, long pants and sleeves, and close-toed shoes are easy steps to take when preventing fungi and other potential irritants outdoors.
In the Home
If someone in your home has an active fungal infection, avoid sharing towels, sheets, clothes, or combs with that person until the infection has passed. It’s also possible for pets to be a source of exposure for fungal infections like ringworm. Dr. Rudolph says, “Outdoor exposure to fungi in the ground that get on your pets can lead to cross-infection for the owner and recurrence. Treating the pets and avoiding exposure can help.” To prevent spreading the infection from one pet to another or to humans in the house, keep the pet with the infection isolated until the treatment is complete. Be sure to vacuum, sweep, disinfect shared spaces, and wash any pet towels and bedding in hot water with detergent.
Unfortunately, common fungal infections aren’t completely avoidable, but with some healthy habits and effective treatment, they can be resolved.
“It is important to teach your children proper hygiene methods in order to keep them safe from fungal infections. One of the most effective ways to prevent fungal infections is to wash your hands with warm water and soap. Another important and easy way to help your child stay safe from fungal infections is to be sure they are wearing shoes in shared spaces such as gyms, locker rooms, and public restrooms.”
– Aidree Cook, PA-C, Erlanger Express Care
Todd Rudolph, MD
Medical Director, AFC Urgent Care
Aidree Cook, PA-C
Erlanger Express Care
Michael Chung, MD
Skin Cancer & Cosmetic Dermatology Center
