Version July 2025
Please read the Disclaimer at the end of this page.
What are discharge instructions? —
Discharge instructions are information about how to take care of yourself after getting medical care in the emergency department ("ED").
What should I know? —
You came to the ED for a skin rash. The doctors think your rash is caused by a fungus. Ringworm, jock itch, and athlete's foot are all kinds of fungal skin rashes. They can spread easily from between people, or from pets to people. You can also spread it from 1 part of your body to another.
The doctors might have given you pills, creams, lotions, or powders to treat your rash. It is important to finish all the medicine, even if you start to feel better.
How do I care for myself at home? —
Ask the doctor or nurse what you should do when you go home. Make sure you understand exactly what you need to do to care for yourself. Ask questions if there is anything you do not understand.
You should also do the following:
●Call your regular doctor and tell them you were in the ED. Make a follow-up appointment if you were told to.
●Take or use all your medicines as instructed.
●If the infection is on your feet:
•Keep your feet clean and dry. Dry your feet well after showering, bathing, or swimming. Make sure you dry between your toes.
•Always wear slippers or sandals when at the gym, pool, or other public areas. This includes public showers.
•Change your socks at least once a day.
●If the infection is on your groin:
•Keep your groin area clean and dry. Dry the area well after showering, bathing, or swimming.
•Change your underwear at least once a day.
●If the infection is on your scalp:
•Get rid of any combs, brushes, barrettes, or other hair products that could have the fungus on them.
•Do not share combs, brushes, or hats with others.
•Make sure a doctor or nurse checks everyone in your house for a fungal infection on the scalp. They might also suggest everyone else in the house use an antifungal shampoo for a few weeks.
●Keep your skin clean and dry. Wash with soap and shampoo, especially after sports or exercise. Always dry yourself well.
●Do not share unwashed clothes, sports gear, or towels with other people.
●If the infection might have come from a pet, have the pet checked by a vet.
When should I get emergency help?
●Call for emergency help right away (in the US and Canada, call 9-1-1) if:
•You have severe trouble breathing or swallowing (for example, you cannot speak in full sentences).
●Return to the ED if you:
•Are having trouble breathing, but can still talk in full sentences
•Have a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, or chills
•Have worse swelling, redness, warmth, pain, or drainage
When should I call the doctor? —
Call for advice if:
●The rash spreads.
●The rash is not getting better after 7 to 10 days of treatment.
●You have new or worsening symptoms.
Patient education: Ringworm, athlete's foot, and jock itch (The Basics)
Patient education: How to use topical medicines (The Basics)
Patient education: Ringworm (including athlete's foot and jock itch) (Beyond the Basics)
