Ringworm Treatment
Available at both our Palm Beach Gardens and Stuart locations
Fast, Effective Ringworm Treatment
Ringworm treatment requires accurate diagnosis to distinguish this fungal infection from similar skin conditions. We provide same-day evaluation and prescription antifungal medications when needed. Walk-ins welcome at both Palm Beach Gardens and Stuart locations, open daily 8am-8pm.
Signs You May Have Ringworm
- Circular, ring-shaped rash with raised edges
- Red, scaly, or itchy patches on skin
- Clear or normal-looking skin in the center of the ring
- Rash that spreads outward over time
- Multiple rings that overlap or merge
- Hair loss in affected areas (scalp ringworm)
- Thick, discolored, or crumbling nails (nail ringworm)
- Rash that doesn't improve with over-the-counter creams
- Spreading to other body areas or family members
- Symptoms persisting beyond 2 weeks of self-treatment
How We Diagnose & Treat Ringworm
Our medical providers perform thorough skin examinations to accurately diagnose ringworm and rule out similar conditions like eczema or psoriasis. We may use specialized lighting or skin samples when needed. Treatment is tailored to the infection's location and severity, with prescription-strength antifungal medications for faster, more effective results than over-the-counter options.
What to Expect During Your Visit
Diagnostic Capabilities
Recovery Timeline & Prevention
Most ringworm infections improve within 2-4 weeks with proper antifungal treatment. Symptoms often decrease within the first week, but completing the full treatment course is essential to prevent recurrence. Keep affected areas clean and dry, avoid sharing personal items, and wash clothing and bedding in hot water. Continue treatment for the full prescribed duration even after symptoms resolve. This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical emergency, call 911 immediately. For urgent but non-emergency conditions, visit True Compassion Urgent Care at either our Palm Beach Gardens or Stuart location. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for personalized medical advice.
Available at Both Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
No, despite its name, ringworm is not caused by a worm. It's a fungal infection called dermatophytosis. The name comes from the characteristic ring-shaped rash it creates on the skin. The same types of fungi that cause athlete's foot and jock itch can cause ringworm on other body parts.
Ringworm is highly contagious and spreads through direct skin-to-skin contact with infected people or animals, or indirect contact with contaminated objects like towels, clothing, or surfaces. It can also spread from one area of your body to another. Proper treatment and hygiene practices help prevent transmission to others.
Over-the-counter antifungal creams may work for mild, small ringworm infections, but prescription-strength medications are often more effective and work faster. Some ringworm infections, particularly on the scalp or nails, require oral prescription medications. Our providers can determine the most appropriate treatment for your specific case.
According to CDC guidelines, people with ringworm can return to work or school once treatment has started. However, keep the infection covered with clothing or a bandage, practice good hand hygiene, and avoid activities involving close skin contact until the infection has cleared. Your provider will give you specific guidance based on your situation.
No appointment is necessary. We welcome walk-ins daily from 8am to 8pm at both our Palm Beach Gardens and Stuart locations. Most visits for ringworm evaluation and treatment take 30-45 minutes from check-in to checkout.
Please bring your photo ID, insurance card if applicable, and a list of any current medications or allergies. If you've tried any over-the-counter treatments, bring those or note what you've used and for how long.
Ringworm can recur if treatment is incomplete or if you're re-exposed to the fungus. Completing the full course of prescribed medication, even after symptoms improve, is crucial. We also provide guidance on preventing reinfection through proper hygiene and environmental cleaning.
If you have pets and develop ringworm, they should be examined by a veterinarian, as animals can carry and transmit the fungus even without showing symptoms. This is especially important if you have cats, which are common carriers of ringworm fungi.
This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The content on this page is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or health condition. Always consult your physician or qualified healthcare provider with any questions about a medical condition.
In case of a medical emergency, call 911 immediately. Do not rely on this information for emergency medical treatment.
No physician-patient relationship is created by viewing this content. This information does not replace in-person evaluation and treatment by a licensed medical professional.
Ready to Get Care?
Walk-ins welcome at both locations. Open daily 8am-8pm.