Ringworm, medically known as tinea, can affect the skin around and sometimes inside the nose. This common fungal infection is not caused by a worm but by various types of fungi. While often associated with other body parts, these fungi can infect the nasal area. Nasal ringworm can manifest with specific signs.
Recognizing Nasal Ringworm
Nasal ringworm often presents as a red, scaly, and itchy rash on the skin around the nose. The classic “ring” shape, with a raised, bumpy border and clearer center, might be present, but its appearance can vary, especially on the face. The rash can also appear as scaly plaques. In some cases, bumps, pustules, or even hair loss can occur if the infection extends to hair follicles.
The skin may flake, peel, or crack, and can feel itchy, stinging, or burning. These symptoms can sometimes be mistaken for other skin conditions, such as eczema, psoriasis, or rosacea. A healthcare professional can identify nasal ringworm through visual examination or by taking a skin scraping for microscopic analysis.
How Ringworm Reaches the Nose
Ringworm is highly contagious and spreads through several common routes. Direct skin-to-skin contact with an infected person or animal is a primary mode of transmission. This can happen through close physical interaction or by touching an infected pet, such as a cat or dog.
Indirect contact also plays a significant role, as the fungus transfers from contaminated objects. Sharing personal items like towels, pillows, razors, or makeup applicators can spread fungal spores to the face. Individuals can also inadvertently spread ringworm to their nose by touching an infected area on their own body, such as athlete’s foot or jock itch, and then touching their face.
Treating and Preventing Nasal Ringworm
Effective treatment for nasal ringworm begins with a medical diagnosis. For most cases, topical antifungal medications are recommended, applied directly to the affected skin. These include creams, ointments, or sprays containing active ingredients like clotrimazole, miconazole, or terbinafine. Apply these medications to the rash and a small area of surrounding healthy skin, continuing treatment for the full duration prescribed, even if symptoms improve quickly.
For more severe, persistent, or widespread infections, or if hair follicles are involved, oral antifungal medications may be prescribed. These systemic treatments, such as fluconazole or itraconazole, work throughout the body to eliminate the fungus. Complete the entire course of medication as directed by a healthcare professional to ensure the infection is fully eradicated and prevent recurrence.
Preventing nasal ringworm involves practicing good personal hygiene and being mindful of potential infection sources. Regularly washing hands, especially after contact with animals or contaminated surfaces, helps reduce fungal transmission. Avoiding the sharing of personal items like towels, hats, or grooming tools can prevent the spread of fungal spores. Keeping the skin around the nose clean and dry is also helpful, as fungi thrive in warm, moist environments. Avoid touching the face unnecessarily, especially after touching areas that might be infected or contaminated.