What should you know about ringworm and yeast infection?

Ringworm usually produces an itchy, expanding, scaly or ring-shaped rash on skin such as the groin, thighs or body. Vaginal thrush is caused by an overgrowth of Candida and commonly presents with vulval itching, soreness, redness and a thick discharge. The two infections can occur at the same time, but a skin rash does not diagnose thrush, and vaginal symptoms do not confirm ringworm. Similar symptoms can come from irritation, bacterial imbalance or sexually transmitted infections, so appearance alone can mislead.

Keep affected skin clean and dry, avoid sharing towels or clothing, and wash hands after touching a rash. Do not put a skin cream inside the vagina unless a clinician specifically advises it. Antifungal treatment for thrush is different from treatment chosen for ringworm, and the correct product depends on the site and diagnosis. Avoid scented washes and tight clothing while symptoms settle. A clinician can examine persistent vaginal discharge, itching or vulval pain and test when the cause is uncertain.

Book a review if symptoms are new, severe, recurrent, spreading, or not improving with appropriate treatment. Seek prompt advice during pregnancy, after recent antibiotics, or when there are sores, fever, pelvic pain, foul-smelling discharge or pain when passing urine. Urgent care is needed for severe pelvic pain or feeling faint.

Ask whether the rash or vaginal symptoms need testing, which antifungal is suitable for the body site, and how to reduce spread or recurrence at home.