Frustrations with Persistent Ringworm Infection
I am a 34-year-old woman, 5'7" tall, and weigh 10 stone 7. Recently, I underwent a blood transfusion due to low levels caused by excessive menstrual bleeding. I also have a history of aortic dissection and I'm currently on medication that includes fluoxetine and pregabalin. For this ongoing issue, I have been using antifungal medications: tablets, terbinafine cream, and clotrimazole cream, which I'm alternating between since the latter has proven ineffective on its own. Additionally, I've just started taking antihistamines. I'm a non-smoker and my primary concern is the spread of this infection across my thighs, which began as what I thought was ringworm. To clarify, this started a few weeks ago and despite my efforts, including fresh clothing and linens, the condition has only worsened over the past three weeks. I’ve been on the antifungal tablets for a mere eight days, yet the rash continues to expand, leaving me bewildered and unsure of how to proceed. If anyone has insights or advice, I would greatly appreciate your help. Thank you! Emma x
Answers (1)
7/8/2025, 5:20:47 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel frustrated with a persistent skin infection like ringworm, especially given your recent health challenges. It's important to tackle this condition comprehensively and with a clear plan.
Main Points
You are experiencing a worsening ringworm infection despite antifungal treatments, and your concerns about the spread are valid. This may require a revised approach to treatment.
Explanation
Ringworm is a common fungal infection that can spread easily, especially if it's not responding to initial treatments. Often, the effectiveness of antifungal medications can be affected by various factors, including the type of fungus involved, the site of infection, and skin conditions. Since you've been using antifungal medications without improvement, here's how you can move forward.
Next Steps
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Continue Current Medications Properly: Keep using the oral antifungal tablets as prescribed. It's crucial to complete the full course, which typically lasts weeks.
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Optimize Topical Treatment: Since clotrimazole cream has been ineffective, continue using it alongside the terbinafine cream as directed. Ensure that you're applying it to the affected areas and surrounding skin twice daily for at least two weeks after lesions have cleared.
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Prevent Spread: To minimize the risk of spreading the infection, wash your towels and clothing frequently in hot water and avoid sharing personal items. Consider using separate towels for the infected area.
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Monitor for Changes: Keep an eye on the rash. If it continues to spread or does not improve significantly in the next week, you might need a more comprehensive evaluation by a dermatologist.
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Consider Other Conditions: Since you’re on immunosuppressive medications (like fluoxetine and pregabalin), it may be worth considering other underlying skin conditions or factors that could be contributing to the infection.
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Skin Care Routine: Ensure your skin remains dry and clean. Moist environments can worsen fungal infections. After bathing, pat the area dry rather than rubbing it, and consider using antifungal powder to help keep the area dry.
In case of severe symptoms like an increase in pain, swelling, or if you develop a fever, seek more urgent care. Keep a close check on how your skin is responding to treatment over the next week, and do feel free to share more details or updates. Remember that navigating skin conditions can be challenging, and you are taking the right steps for your health. Take care, Emma!
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