Most types of ringworm can be treated with over-the-counter medicines. But ringworm of the scalp and nails require taking an antifungal medicine by mouth. This medicine must be prescribed by your healthcare provider. If you are unsure if your child has ringworm or if your child has a weakened immune system, call your child’s healthcare provider.
Key points about ringworm in children
- Ringworm is a type of skin infection. It looks like a red skin rash that forms a ring around normal-looking skin.
- Ringworm infection is not caused by an actual worm but by fungi on the skin, hair, and nailbeds.
- The symptoms of ringworm vary, depending on which part of the body is affected. Most cause itching.
- Ringworm is usually diagnosed based on a health history and physical exam of your child.
- Most ringworm infections are treated with medicines that you apply to the skin. But ringworm of the scalp and nails require a prescribed antifungal medicine that your child takes by mouth.
Next steps
Tips to help you get the most from a visit to your child’s healthcare provider:
- Know the reason for the visit and what you want to happen.
- Before your visit, write down questions you want answered.
- At the visit, write down the name of a new diagnosis, and any new medicines, treatments, or tests. Also write down any new instructions your provider gives you for your child.
- Know why a new medicine or treatment is prescribed and how it will help your child. Also know what the side effects are.
- Ask if your child’s condition can be treated in other ways.
- Know why a test or procedure is recommended and what the results could mean.
- Know what to expect if your child does not take the medicine or have the test or procedure.
- If your child has a follow-up appointment, write down the date, time, and purpose for that visit.
- Know how you can contact your child’s provider after office hours. This is important if your child becomes ill and you have questions or need advice.
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