Tinea fungal infection (ringworm)
The symptoms of a tinea fungal infection depend on where the infection is.
The symptoms of ringworm include:
In more severe cases:
The ring spreads outwards as it progresses. You can have one patch or several patches of ringworm, and in more serious cases, your skin may become raised and blistered.
Ringwormon the face and neck may not appear ring-shaped, but may be itchy and swollen, and it can become dry and crusted. If you have a beard, you may notice patches of hair breaking away.
Ringworm on the hand often causes the skin to become thicker on the palm and in between the fingers. It may affect one hand or both and normally only appears on one side.
The symptoms of a fungal scalp infection include:
In more severe cases:
In very severe cases, a large inflamed sore called a kerion may form on your scalp. This can ooze pus, and you may also have a fever and swollen lymph glands.
The main symptom of athletes foot is an itchy, dry, red and flaky rash, usually in the spaces between your toes. In more severe cases, you may have:
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The symptoms of jock itch include:
Exercising, walking and wearing tight clothing or underwear can make the symptoms of a groin infection worse.
The symptoms of a fungal nail infection include:
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Make an appointment to see your GP if you:
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Ringworm is a common and highly infectious skin infection that causes a ring-like red rash on the skin. The condition is medically known as "tinea".
Ringworm often looks like a round, red or silvery patch of skin that may be scaly and itchy.
Ringworm is a skin infection caused by a fungus. Fungi are plant-like organisms that feed on living tissue, including human skin.
Ringworm is usually easy to diagnose from its appearance and location.
Ringworm is easily treated using antifungal creams, tablets and shampoo.
If you or someone in your family has ringworm, follow the advice below to prevent the infection spreading.