Fungal skin infection
Ringworm and athlete's foot. Itchy, scaly patches that clear quickly with treatment.
In short
Fungal skin infections like ringworm and athlete's foot are common and clear quickly with antifungal treatment. A GP can confirm it, prescribe the right treatment, and help with stubborn or spreading cases.
Overview
What is fungal skin infection?
Fungal skin infections are caused by dermatophyte fungi that thrive in warm, moist skin. They include ringworm (a ring-shaped body rash), athlete's foot (between the toes), and related infections. They're common, contagious, and usually easy to treat with antifungal creams, though scalp and nail infections need tablets.
Symptoms
Common symptoms
- An itchy, red or scaly rash
- A ring-shaped patch with a clearer centre (ringworm)
- Itchy, cracked, peeling skin between the toes (athlete's foot)
- Flaking or blistering
- Spreading if left untreated
When to act
When to see a doctor
Book a GP if an over-the-counter antifungal hasn't worked within 2 weeks, the rash is spreading, it affects the scalp or nails, or you're unsure what it is.
When to seek urgent help
Seek urgent help if
- A spreading rash with redness, pain, and fever (possible bacterial infection)
- Scalp involvement with hair loss (scalp ringworm needs oral treatment)
- A rash not improving after 2 weeks of antifungal treatment (may not be fungal)
Call 999 for life-threatening emergencies or NHS 111 for urgent non-emergency advice.
Treatment
How a private GP can help
- Diagnosis from the typical appearance and your description
- Prescription of antifungal creams (e.g. clotrimazole, terbinafine) where needed
- Oral antifungals for widespread, scalp, or stubborn infections
- Advice on treating all affected areas and preventing spread
- Prevention tips (keeping skin dry, not sharing towels, footwear advice)
- Review if the rash doesn't settle, to reconsider the diagnosis
What we don't do
- Specialist treatment of resistant or widespread infection (referred on)
- Nail-removal procedures
Pricing
What it costs
An online consultation about a fungal skin infection starts at £79 for a 20-minute video appointment. In-pharmacy consultations are £129 and home visits are £189. Your consultation includes one private prescription if appropriate, and a sick note for work if needed. You pay the pharmacy separately for any medication.
FAQ
Common questions about fungal skin infection
Is ringworm actually a worm?
How long does treatment take?
Is it contagious?
Can I prevent athlete's foot?
Ready to talk to a GP about a fungal skin infection?
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