What is Ringworm?
Dr. Monga's Clinic is renowned for excellence in skin treatment since 1946. We provide an integrated approach that includes modern Ayurveda along with Allopathy to treat skin diseases like ringworm. If you notice any itching, burning, or rashes on your body, schedule a consultation with Dr. Monga's Clinic skin specialists in Delhi NCR, who provide an accurate diagnostic with effective treatment for ringworm with no recurrence rate.
Ringworm is also known as Tinea (dermatophytosis) or in Hindi “Daad.” It is a common fungal infection that affects the body skin, scalp, or nails. A common misconception is that ringworm infection is caused by a worm. The truth is: ringworm is caused by the fungi Microsporum, Trichophyton, and Epidermophyton. These microscopic fungi thrive on keratin, which is a protein present in the skin, hair, and nails.

How do I know it's Ringworm?
If you see a ring-like formation on your skin accompanied by itchy and scaly rashes that are slightly raised, it can be a ringworm infection. It is important to take appropriate ringworm infection treatment to prevent it from spreading further.
Causes of Ringworm
Ringworm infection is highly contagious, but completely curable.
It spreads through:
- Direct skin contact with infected people and animals and infected soil.
- Sharing of infected towels, combs, and clothes
- Warm and humid areas such as locker rooms, gyms, and swimming pools
Risk Factors of Ringworm/Tinea
Certain people are at a higher risk of getting ringworm infection than others. They include:
- People using public showers/locker rooms/swimming pools
- People with weak immunity
- Wrestlers who are frequently in direct skin contact with others
- People in close contact with cats, dogs, and other animals
- People who sweat excessively
- Those who share personal items like towels, combs, and others
- Those who wear tight socks and shoes most of the time
- People living in warm and humid environment
- People with poor nutrition
- Those who often walk barefoot in moist surfaces
- Those who keep poor personal hygiene
Types of Ringworm
Ringworm is classified into five types based on where the infection surfaces:
1. Body Ringworm (Tinea Corporis)
Tinea corporis appears as red, scaly and round patches on the arms, legs, and torso. The rash features raised edges and is itchy with a burning sensation.
2. Scalp Ringworm (Tinea Capitis)
Tinea Capitis appears as dandruff-like flakes on the scalp. Severe cases may lead to bald, scalp patches on the head. This type is common in kids and may lead to complete hair loss if it is left untreated.
3. Nail Ringworm (Tinea Unguium)
Tinea Unguium turns nails brittle, yellowish, and thicker. This one is hard to treat.
4. Athlete's Foot (Tinea Pedis)
Tinea Pedis or Athlete's Foot is characterized by cracked and peeling skin between the toes. It can cause blisters, itching, and a burning sensation. It is generally caused by walking barefoot frequently on moist surfaces and wearing tight socks and shoes.
5. Jock Itch (Tinea Cruris)
Tinea Cruris appears in the inner thighs or groin region as itchy and red rash. It usually happens in men, especially athletes.
6. Face ringworm (Tinea Faciei)
Tinea Corporis appears on face as scaly, itchy, round rash with a raised border and a demarcated center. This one is not so common.
7. Beard/moustache ringworm (Tinea barbae)
Ringworm can also appear on the beard and moustache, although this is rare. Yet, when it happens, it is advised to see a ringworm specialist for appropriate treatment.

Symptoms of Ringworm
Symptoms of ringworm differ in people based on the type of infection and the severity. Let's take a look at the various signs and symptoms:
- Body Ringworm: Itchy, scaly, red rash in round shape with a raised ring like appearance that looks like a circular worm, hence the name ringworm.
- Scalp Ringworm: Looks similar to dandruff, but this one is accompanied with rash, redness, and itchiness. It may cause enlargement of lymph nodes. If left untreated, may cause hair loss.
- Nail Ringworm: Turns nails thicker, yellow, and brittle. Yellowing and brittleness of nails can also be the symptom of other medical condition. It is advised to consult a ringworm specialist for the correct diagnosis.
- Athlete's Foot: Blisters and scales on the feet. Scaling and whitening of the skin between toes, along with a burning and itchy rash.
- Jock Itch: Pain and itching in the groin area or at the inner thighs accompanied with ring-shaped, red patches.
- Face and beard/moustache ringworm: Red, scaly, itchy patch that seems to expand on skin.
It is important to take timely ringworm fungal infection treatment after a proper consultation with a specialist for a complete cure. Leaving this fungal infection can be dangerous, as it is highly contagious.
Ringworm Treatment
If you are wondering how to cure Ringworm, then you are at the right place.
Remember, when you come in contact with an infected surface, ringworm does not appear immediately. It takes around 15-20 days to develop the ringworm infection. Moreover, the causative fungi can live on the surface for a long time, making it harder for you to find the exact source of infection.
First stage:
The initial stage features irritation on the infected area. The skin turns scaly and dry with a bit of discoloration. It is good to consult a physician at this time.
Second stage:
The “ringed” area grows in size. The center may appear as healthy skin with a worm-like scaly ring surrounding the area. At this point of time, you must delay in taking ringworm infection treatment.
Steps we follow to treat ringworm infection at Dr. Monga's:
- Our clinic conducts an initial consultation with a specialist.
- The doctor will gather the medical history
- Analyze the symptoms of disease as per modern medicine and Ayurveda (Vata, Pitta, Kapha doshas)
- In case of ringworm, our doctor examines the type of rashes.
- Differential Diagnosis may be included, such as asking basic questions like: “Do you live in a moisture-laden area? Did you suffer from an insect bite? Did you have a skin-to-skin contact with anybody? Did you share towels and other daily usage items, etc.?
- After a thorough understanding of the case, the doctor may recommend the latest diagnostic tests like blood tests, full body tests, fungal culture, or STD screening test.
- After diagnosis and confirmatory tests for ringworm infection treatment, our doctors prescribe Allopathic and Ayurvedic medication as per need that can include local/topical applications or oral medications or both.
Why Choose Dr. Monga's
At Dr. Monga's Clinic, we provide specialized, holistic care that addresses the root cause of diseases that goes beyond the superficial treatment. We have treated more than 7 lakh patients successfully till now and carry a legacy of Ayurveda expertise for 75+ years. We combine personalized care with proven Allopathic and modern Ayurvedic treatment for long-lasting and effective relief to patients.
We are India's one of the most trusted clinics with:
- 3 OPD Clinics in Delhi/NCR
- 1 Digital Clinic for Online Consults
- 10 Qualified Doctors
- 3 Certified Dieticians
- 3 Certified Counsellors
- 10 Online Patient Care Executives
- 20+ Technical & Support Staff
At Dr. Mong's, we prioritize your wellbeing through compassionate, confidential, and cost-effective care.
Meet Our Team
Our dedicated team of highly skilled doctors combines expertise, innovation, and compassion to deliver exceptional medical care tailored to every patient.
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Dr. Yuvraj Arora Monga
M.B.B.S, M.D General Physician -
Dr. Rupender S Kaushik
B.A.M.S Ayurveda Physician -
Dr. Sunil Tomar
B.A.M.S Chief Ayurveda Physician -
Dr. Jyoti Arora
B.A.M.S Chief Ayurveda Physician -
Dr. Manisha Rani
B.A.M.S Chief Ayurveda Physician -
Dr. Nidhi
B.A.M.S Chief Ayurveda Physician -
Dr. Tinkle Rani
B.A.M.S Chief Ayurveda Physician
Frequently asked questions (FAQ's)
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1 How to recognize ringworm infection?
Ringworm infection is characterized by an itchy and scaly rash, which is slightly raised and in the shape of a ring. The ring is small in the beginning and expands when left untreated.
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2 What to do when you get a ringworm infection?
Stop sharing your towels and other personal items with others. Avoid skin contact with other people. Ringworm is highly contagious. Contact our ringworm specialist at Dr, Monga's clinic.
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3 Is ringworm a curable skin disease?
Yes. Ringworm is completely curable if treated on time. Schedule a consultation with our physician at the clinic for a complete ringworm infection treatment.
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4 Does ringworm go away by itself?
Yes, mild infection may go away on its own, but chances are high that it may recur. It is better to take proper ringworm treatment at our clinic to prevent recurrence and to get a permanent solution.
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5 Is Ayurveda effective in treating ringworm?
At Dr. Monga's, we use potent antifungal herbal treatments and certain blood-purifying methods to cleanse your systems. This addresses the issue at its root.
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6 How to cure ringworms?
You may require medical intervention to cure ringworm. At Dr. Monga's, our physicians prescribe oral and topical medication, depending on the case.
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7 How much time does it take to treat ringworm?
Our customized ringworm infection treatment plan gives visible improvement in around 3 to 7 days. It may take 2-3 weeks for a complete cure, depending on the severity of the infection and the response of the patient.
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8 Is ringworm treatment costly?
No. At Dr. Monga's, we offer cost-effective treatment plans.
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9 Is it possible to treat ringworm infection without consulting a doctor?
It is advised not to attempt treating ringworm on your own or through OTC medication. It is wise to schedule a consultation with a physician at our clinic and follow the doctor's instructions for a complete cure and to prevent recurrence.
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10 Can I swim while under ringworm treatment?
No. You must avoid swimming, going to the gym, and other sweating environments until you are fully cured. Our physicians will guide you in making the necessary lifestyle changes for a complete cure.