Ringworm

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Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

Ringworm is a very common skin infection that is caused by fungus. Ringworm is a skin condition that triggers redness, itching and discomfort. The best way to treat ringworm is with an antifungal medication. There are different types of ringworm that are dependent on where they are located on the body. Receiving medical advice is important when identifying ringworm. With our online service, Bettr, you can do this from the comfort of your home.

What is a ringworm?

Ringworm is a common skin condition that is caused by a fungus infection. It can affect people from all walks of life, and any age, gender and ethnicity. Ringworm appears across the body, however it specifically targets your arms, legs, feet, groin or scalp. Ringworm can be easily spread from skin-to-skin contact, and it is important to seek medical advice if you develop a ringworm, or a similar type of condition.

What causes a ringworm?

Ringworm’s main cause is a fungal infection. This infection can be caused by a number of factors, so it is difficult to pinpoint one in particular.

  • Infection. When suffering from a fungal infection, your body begins to try to fight this off. However, because fungus can spread quickly, it is possible that ringworm is a defect to your body trying to fight off the bad.
  • Contact. Skin to skin contact with someone who has ringworm cannot be prevented at times, especially if that person does not know they have ringworm.
  • Petting animals. Animals that are affected by ringworm can be a cause of a human contracting ringworm. Especially if they are a household pet.

What are the symptoms of a ringworm?

Ringworm can be identified through a red, itchy, discomforting rash or skin condition that appears on different parts of the body. This rash is generally in the shape of a ring, and surrounds normal-looking skin. This rash is raised, painful and can at times include pimple-like bumps.

Note: If you are suffering from any of the below symptoms, but aren’t sure if you are suffering from ringworm, it pays to take action immediately. If you aren’t suffering from ringworm your symptoms may still be treatable.

Who can get a ringworm?

People of all ages and genders can develop ringworm, there is no common age group that it can be found in. While people who suffer from allergies are likely to experience a more severe case of hives, as it is a direct reaction to an allergy. We recommend that you seek help immediately to minimise the concern of the sickness; you can do this using our online appointment service, Bettr.

How is a ringworm treated?

Medication – Upon assessment, your local GP is likely to prescribe you with antifungal treatment that will help to rid yourself of ringworm. Ringworm is caused by a fungus, so antifungal treatment is the best possible treatment. These come in a variety of different forms such as creams, lotions, powder, spray and gel. Your GP will help to determine which treatment will be best suited for you.

What do I do if I have a ringworm?

Make sure to get in touch with a GP if you have any symptoms pointing towards ringworm. You are able to do this through our online service, Bettr. One of our staff will talk you through your symptoms and find the best possible treatment available to you. Book your online consultation below.

If you aren’t suffering from ringworm specifically, our team will help prescribe you with medication to treat your rash and/or similar symptoms.

We are able to hold same day appointments and can prescribe your medication online. There is no need to download an app, or re-register with your current GP.

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