When experiencing a health issue, it isn’t uncommon for people to look up their symptoms on Google—but one graduate student recently turned to Reddit for advice.
User economics3 shared a photo of their arm, which has a “weird patch,” as described in the caption, noting that it doesn’t “come off.”
It appears to be a ring-shaped rash, prompting others to diagnose it as ringworm. In the comments, the user said that the doctor had confirmed the diagnosis.
Newsweek discussed the post, which has 24,000 upvotes, with Dr. Sabina Hanoman-Singh, a consultant private GP based in England.
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What Is Ringworm?
Hanoman-Singh explained that ringworm, or tinea corporis, is a common superficial fungal infection caused primarily by dermatophyte fungi. It is not caused by a worm, despite the name.
How Does Ringworm Spread?
Hanoman-Singh said: “The infection spreads via direct person-to-person contact, but transmission can also occur through fomites (shared items), as the fungus sheds microscopic spores that can survive on surfaces. Shared items such as towels, bedding, clothing, hairbrushes, and gym equipment can all facilitate its spread.”
She added that the condition affects people of all ages and is found worldwide, although it is most common in children and young adults, particularly in warm, humid environments where fungi thrive.
One user asked: “Have you been in any situations where you might have gotten ringworm, such as a gym, or have you gotten a new pet?”
The original poster responded: “I just got a cat last month actually… I’m going to see my doctor and use anti-fungal cream. And take my kitty to the vet to get tested for stuff. But the adoption documents and checkup all said she was clear of everything, so I’m not sure.”
Can Pets Spread Ringworm?
Indeed, ringworm can be transmitted from animals to humans.
Hanoman-Singh told Newsweek: “It is a form of ‘zoonotic’ transmission. Household pets such as cats and dogs can carry the fungus, as can farm animals like cattle. Regular veterinary care and good hygiene practices are essential in preventing pet-to-human spread.”
What Happens If Ringworm Is Left Untreated?
The CDC states it is estimated that up to 25 percent of people in the world may experience ringworm at some point in their lifetime.
Hanoman-Singh said: “If left untreated, ringworm can spread to other parts of the body and to other individuals. The infection often causes itchy, scaly, red ring-shaped rashes, and persistent cases may lead to skin damage, discomfort, and secondary bacterial infections. In immunocompromised individuals, the infection may become more extensive and severe, requiring prompt medical intervention.”
Reddit Reacts
So far, the post has 1,700 comments—many from users sharing their experiences or speculating where the user may have gotten it.
“Ringworm is notorious for being spread at gyms and ESPECIALLY by wrestling,” said one user.
Another shared: “I had ringworm about two years ago, and I didn’t know what it was. My mom told me it was ringworm and I thought that meant there was literally a worm buried in my arm.”
A third user said: “And this is how I find out that the rash on my hands, stomach, and thigh is ringworm and not just stress rashes, thank you internet.”
Newsweek reached out to u/economics3 for comment. We could not verify the details of the case.
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