How Long Does Ringworm Live On Surfaces?

If you or your loved one struggles with a ringworm, you might be wondering: How long does ringworm live on surfaces? How can you keep it from spreading? Many questions will come to your mind. Ringworm is very contagious. However, there are various ways that can keep it from spreading. You will learn various things about this condition from this blog, and we’ll answer each question that you have regarding ringworm.

What is Ringworm?

Ringworm is a common skin infection caused by a fungus. Ringworm can develop anywhere on your body. However, the rash might look different based on where it is. It is usually raised and flaky, and colored grey, red, or brown. It is generally round or a circular shape, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are some of the most common types of ringworm:

• Body ringworm
• Scalp ringworm
• Athlete’s foot
• Jock itch

Sometimes, the fungus that causes ringworm gets into your toenails or fingernails. This can result in a fungal nail infection.

How Do You Get Ringworm?

Ringworm fungi typically reside on the outer layer of the skin, however, in warm, dark, and humid environments, they can multiply and cause an infection.

Ringworm spreads easily through direct skin contact with an infected person or by sharing items such as clothing, bedding, or towels. You can also become infected by touching contaminated surfaces in areas such as locker rooms or communal showers.

Infected pets, especially dogs and cats, can pass ringworm to humans. In rare cases, prolonged contact with soil containing the fungus can also lead to infection.

You may be more prone to ringworm if you play close-contact sports, sweat heavily, or work with animals that may carry the fungus. Your risk is also higher if you have skin or nail injuries, diabetes, obesity, or a weakened immune system.

How Long Does Ringworm Live On Surfaces?

Ringworm fungi can live on surfaces for several months, usually up to a year or longer, especially in moist and warm environments. To prevent reinfection, it’s essential to disinfect surfaces and wash contaminated things like clothes and bedding in hot water.

What Does Ringworm Look Like When It’s Healing?

Here are the healing stages of ringworm:

• Rash fades: The round, ring-like rash becomes less prominent and may fade away from the centre, leaving normal and smoother skin.
• Reduced flaking and itching: The intense flaking and itching related to the active infection have reduced significantly.
• Normal skin appearance: The texture of the skin becomes normal and smoother, and its normal color gradually returns to the affected area.
• Color changes: It’s common to have skin discoloration after the rash has gone that will fade over time.

What Does a Ringworm Scar Look Like?

• Shape and pattern: It usually looks like the original ringworm rash, appearing as a round or ring-shaped patch that surrounds an area of clearer skin.
• Color: The color of the scar may vary, but it is usually discolored or brown, which is called post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. This can be darker or lighter than the skin tone of the area.
• Texture: The skin can feel slightly uneven, rough, or have a different texture compared to healthy skin.
• Severity and duration: Most mild cases of ringworm don’t leave scars, and any discoloration usually fades within a few weeks or months when treated properly. However, in rare and severe cases, the ringworm can leave a permanent scar.

Can You Get Ringworm in Your Eye?

While the fungus that causes ringworm doesn’t infect the inside of the eye, it can cause a ringworm infection on the skin of the eyelid, which is known as ringworm of the eyelid or tinea faciei.

Another fungal infection called fungal keratitis can infect the cornea and cause symptoms like discharge, pain, and sensitivity to light, especially in people with weakened immune systems or who use contact lenses.

How to Treat Ringworm?

Ringworm can be treated with over-the-counter antifungal creams. If it worsens or doesn’t improve, see a dermatologist because some cases need prescription treatment and can take up to 2 months to clear. To prevent spreading:

• Keep skin dry and clean
• Wear sandals in public showers
• Don’t share personal items or clothing
• Keep nails clean and short
• Shower after contact sports

Conclusion

Ringworm is a common skin infection caused by a fungus. It is contagious and can spread without treatment. With treatment, people can stop being contagious with ringworm. If you notice any signs of ringworm, get a consultation with a doctor.