Despite its unsettling name, ringworm has nothing to do with worms. It’s a common fungal skin infection—one that often announces itself through visible changes on the skin before people understand what it is. Those changes, especially the bumps and ring-shaped patches, can be confusing, uncomfortable, and sometimes embarrassing for those experiencing them.
Ringworm thrives quietly at first. It may begin as a small itchy spot that feels harmless. Over time, that spot grows, spreads outward, and forms a circular or oval pattern. The center may look clearer while the edges become raised, red, and dotted with small bumps. This distinctive shape is what gave ringworm its name.
Why Ringworm Causes Bumps on the Skin
The bumps appear because the fungus irritates the outer layer of the skin. As it spreads, the immune system reacts, causing inflammation. This reaction shows up as:
Raised, itchy edges
Small fluid-filled or rough bumps
Redness and flaking
A defined border that continues to expand
These bumps are often more noticeable around the outer edge of the patch, where the fungus is most active.
How It Spreads
Ringworm is highly contagious, but not dangerous. It spreads through:
Skin-to-skin contact
Shared towels, clothing, or bedding
Contact with infected pets
Damp environments like locker rooms and showers
Warm, moist areas of the body—such as the arms, legs, groin, scalp, or torso—are especially vulnerable.
How It Feels
