If left untreated, ringworm can spread to other areas of your body. You may also risk spreading the infection to someone else. Other potential complications include: hair loss and scarring.
How long does ringworm last untreated?
There's no set time limit for a ringworm infection. Without treatment, it may go away on its own in a matter of months in a healthy person. Or it may not. Ringworm on the body is usually treated with a topical ointment such as terbinafine.
What happens if ringworm is never treated?
Without treatment, most cases of ringworm would disappear on their own within several months, but they can become chronic. Ringworm symptoms usually disappear quickly with treatment, but the treatment may need to be continued for two to four weeks to eliminate all of the fungus.
Can ringworm make you sick?
Fungal infections rarely spread below the surface of the skin. The risk of any serious illness is very small. However, without treatment, ringworm can spread from one part of the body to another. If the skin is broken, bacteria may enter and cause an infection.
Can ringworm cause permanent damage?
The condition may be caused by an overly vigorous reaction to the fungus and can lead to scarring and permanent hair loss.
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