What Happens After a Telemedicine Visit for Fungal Skin Infection (Ringworm) in Children

Audience: pediatric

After a telemedicine visit for a fungal skin infection like ringworm in children, you will usually receive advice on how to care for the infection at home. The healthcare provider may recommend antifungal creams or medicines and explain how to apply them properly. You might also get tips on keeping the skin clean and dry to help the infection heal faster. It is important to follow the treatment plan and watch for any changes in the rash. Sometimes, the provider may ask for a follow-up visit to check progress. If the infection does not improve or worsens, or if your child develops new symptoms, you should seek further medical care. Telemedicine helps by providing quick access to advice and treatment plans, but some cases may still need in-person visits for tests or stronger treatments.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• If your child develops a high fever or feels very unwell, seek immediate medical care.
• If the rash spreads rapidly, becomes very painful, or shows signs of pus or severe swelling, contact a healthcare provider promptly.
• If your child has difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or mouth, or other signs of a severe allergic reaction, call emergency services immediately.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial evaluation of typical fungal skin infections like ringworm.
• Providing guidance on topical antifungal treatments and skin care.
• Monitoring treatment progress through follow-up visits.
• Answering questions about infection prevention and hygiene.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Severe or widespread skin infections requiring in-person examination.
• Cases with uncertain diagnosis needing skin scrapings or lab tests.
• Infections not responding to initial treatment needing prescription changes or stronger medications.
• Emergency situations such as severe allergic reactions or systemic symptoms.

What to Expect After Your Telemedicine Visit

After your telemedicine visit, the healthcare provider will usually send you a treatment plan. This plan often includes instructions on using antifungal creams or oral medicines. You will also get advice on how to care for your child's skin, such as keeping the affected area clean and dry. The provider may explain how long the treatment should last, which is often several weeks to fully clear the infection.

How to Care for Your Child’s Skin at Home

To help the infection heal, keep the skin clean by washing gently with soap and water. Dry the area thoroughly, as fungi grow well in moist places. Avoid sharing towels, clothing, or bedding to prevent spreading the infection to others. Dress your child in loose, breathable clothing to reduce sweating and irritation.

When to Expect Improvement

With proper treatment, the rash usually starts to improve within 1 to 2 weeks. However, it may take several weeks for the infection to completely clear. Continue the full course of treatment even if the rash looks better to prevent the infection from coming back.

Follow-Up and Monitoring

Your healthcare provider may schedule a follow-up telemedicine visit to check how the treatment is working. During follow-up, they may ask about any changes in the rash or new symptoms. If the infection does not improve or worsens, an in-person visit may be needed for further evaluation.

Preventing Spread and Recurrence

Ringworm is contagious. To prevent spreading it to others, keep your child's skin clean and avoid sharing personal items. Wash clothing, towels, and bedding regularly in hot water. Teach your child good hygiene habits to reduce the chance of future infections.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Have good lighting and a quiet space for the telemedicine visit.
• Be ready to show the affected skin area clearly on camera.
• Prepare a list of symptoms, including how long the rash has been present and any changes.
• Have a list of any medicines or creams already used on the rash.
• Write down questions or concerns you want to discuss with the healthcare provider.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the treatment plan as instructed, applying medicines for the full recommended time.
• Keep the affected skin clean and dry.
• Avoid sharing towels, clothing, or bedding with others.
• Monitor the rash daily for signs of improvement or worsening.
• Attend any scheduled follow-up telemedicine visits.
• Seek in-person care if red flags or worsening symptoms appear.

FAQs

How long does it take for ringworm to go away with treatment?

Ringworm usually starts to improve within 1 to 2 weeks of treatment, but it often takes several weeks to completely clear. It is important to finish the full course of medicine even if the rash looks better.

Can I use over-the-counter creams for my child's ringworm?

Some over-the-counter antifungal creams may help, but it is best to follow the advice of your healthcare provider. They can recommend the most effective treatment based on your child's specific case.

Is ringworm contagious?

Yes, ringworm is contagious and can spread through direct skin contact or by sharing personal items like towels or clothing. Good hygiene and not sharing items can help prevent spreading.

When should I seek in-person medical care?

Seek in-person care if the rash spreads quickly, becomes very painful or swollen, shows signs of infection like pus, or if your child develops a fever or feels very unwell.

Can ringworm come back after treatment?

Yes, ringworm can come back if treatment is not completed or if your child is exposed again to the fungus. Following treatment and hygiene advice helps reduce the chance of recurrence.

Sources

1. Ringworm — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Tinea (Ringworm) — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Ringworm (Tinea) — Mayo Clinic.
4. Fungal Skin Infections — Merck Manuals Consumer Version.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If your child's condition worsens or you have concerns, please seek care from a healthcare professional in person.