Can a doctor address ringworm on Laso MD?
Certainly, a Laso MD doctor can diagnose ringworm. They will inquire about your medical history and likely conduct an examination of the affected area.

If necessary, the doctor may recommend additional tests, such as a fungal culture sample, to confirm the ringworm diagnosis through further analysis.

 

Can I receive a prescription on Laso MD?
Absolutely, our physicians at Laso MD can provide online prescriptions during your consultation.

Upon accepting a prescription, you can choose to pick it up from any pharmacy or opt for convenient doorstep delivery at no extra cost.

 

What is ringworm?

Ringworm, medically known as tinea corporis, is a fungal infection caused by dermatophytes. These fungi thrive by consuming the naturally occurring keratin found on animal skin.

The microscopic spores responsible for ringworm are highly contagious, facilitating the easy transmission of tinea corporis.

Despite its contagious nature, ringworm is a common and treatable condition. In some cases, it may even resolve on its own.

Once an individual is infected, ringworm has the potential to spread to different areas of the body or easily transfer from one person to another, and sometimes even from animals to humans.

The appearance of the fungal infection may vary as it moves across the body. Ringworm affecting the torso, arms, and legs is characterized by the development of itchy, circular rashes on the skin.

The same fungus can lead to conditions such as tinea pedis (commonly between the toes, known as athlete’s foot), jock itch, and diaper rash. Additionally, ringworm can impact the scalp.

 

What are the symptoms of ringworm?

Ringworm is a fungal infection characterized by a rash that typically appears on the arms, legs, back, stomach, and chest. The rash may exhibit the following characteristics:

– A clear area in the middle of a ring of red, scaly rash (the ring), which can also be moist and crusted.
– Occasional presence of red blisters in the center of the ring.
– Itching sensation associated with the rash.
– Raised edges around the ring.

Ringworm symptoms manifest in stages, with the initial stage showing signs of irritation, dryness, and flakiness of the skin. During this stage, the typical ring may not be the first occurrence. The secondary stage is marked by the formation of the ring, featuring healthy skin in the middle of an irritated circle or, at times, blister-like bumps arranged in circular clusters.

The progression of ringworm symptoms can take up to two weeks, during which transmission of ringworm is still possible.

 

 

What leads to ringworm?

Contrary to its name, ringworm is not associated with any type of worm. Instead, it is caused by a fungus that feeds on keratin, a naturally occurring protein found on the skin, nails, hair, and scalp of both humans and animals.

The fungus has the ability to survive on the skin for extended periods, making it easily transmissible to others, primarily through the most common mode of contact, skin-to-skin contact. Additionally, it can persist on items such as towels, clothing, brushes, and various surfaces.

In some instances, ringworm can also be transmitted from animals to humans through direct touch.

 

How is ringworm diagnosed?

Diagnosing ringworm involves a visual examination of the affected area and asking relevant health-related questions to gather information about potential contributing lifestyle factors.

On occasions, a doctor may opt to send a sample from the affected area to a laboratory for testing to confirm the presence of the fungus.

 

 

How is ringworm treated?

The common treatment for ringworm (tinea corporis) involves the use of medicated cream. Over-the-counter options like Lotrimin and Mycelex can effectively clear up ringworm within 2-4 weeks when used as instructed.

Treatment for ringworm on the scalp typically requires a prescription and may take between 1 and 3 months to resolve. Prescription medications such as Diflucan, Onmel, Sporanox, Grifulvin V, and Gris-PEG are commonly prescribed.

It’s essential to note that the treatment for ringworm in humans differs from that used on animals. If there is suspicion of contracting ringworm from a pet, it is advisable to contact a veterinarian. To prevent the spread of tinea corporis while awaiting treatment for pets, precautions such as using gloves to handle the pet and diligently cleaning any shed hair on surfaces like floors and furniture should be taken. All animals in the household should undergo treatment for ringworm, even if they are not showing symptoms, to reduce the risk of transmission to humans.

Preventing ringworm can be challenging as it can affect anyone. However, the likelihood of contracting ringworm can be reduced by:

– Avoiding walking barefoot in gym areas or taking showers at the gym.
– Keeping the skin clean and dry.
– Choosing footwear that allows for good air circulation and breathability.
– Not sharing towels or sheets with individuals with ringworm.
– Changing underwear and socks daily.
– Avoiding sharing athletic wear, such as helmets, with others.
– Washing hands frequently, especially after playing with pets.

 

What is Laso MD?

With Laso MD, you can initiate a conversation with a doctor regarding your symptoms within minutes. We are a healthcare app providing quick and convenient 24/7 access to Canadian doctors.

The process is simple – just log in, tap a button to request a consultation, and we’ll promptly connect you to a doctor through live chat or video. For more information, you can explore our How it Works page.

Our medical professionals at Laso MD can evaluate symptoms and deliver necessary treatments, including prescriptions when required.