If you are a gym-goer, then you are more likely to struggle with these skin problems and here is how you can keep them in check
Working out has several health benefits like it not only makes you look good and feel positive but also keeps you fit, clears the skin and detoxifies your system but while working out at a gym you can contract certain types of skin infections if proper hygiene is not maintained during and post workout and hence you need to be more mindful and careful while working out.
Dr Shireen Furtado, Consultant – Medical and Cosmetic Dermatology at Aster CMI Hospital in Bangalore, highlighted that if you are a gym-goer, then you are more likely to struggle with these skin problems:
1. Ringworm/Tinea –
This is a type of fungal infection that appears as a circular, itchy, red rash on your skin. This infection can occur on any part of your body such as the groin, armpits, under the breast and can cause severe itching. Ringworms may also spread from one part to another and thrive in warm and moist atmospheres like sweaty equipment and benches. The symptoms of ringworm usually appear between 4 to 14 days once you contract the fungus. It is advisable that if you spot any itchy red circular patches on your skin then you must take immediate measures to contain its spread since it is very infective and spreads within family members. Please refrain from asking a pharmacist for medication since most of them suggest steroid based cream which complicates and further ignites fungal infections.
2. Athlete’s Foot
It is a common type of fungal infection that occurs on one’s feet as an itchy peeling skin between one’s toes. This is also a form of tinea of the feet. Since your feet remain moist due to sweat while working out it becomes a breeding ground for fungi. Infected surfaces and dirty yoga mats etc. are some areas through which you can easily contract this infection. Athlete’s Foot is a contagious disease and people suffering from the disease often feel a burning sensation in the affected area. Therefore, it is recommended that you must wash your feet and keep your toes clean after working out. Air the toes well and change socks often- prefer super absorbent socks which wick out most of the sweat.
3. Folliculitis
This is a painful itchy skin condition that appears as red bumps which are quite similar to acne and causes a burning sensation on the skin. This condition can occur on your neck, armpits, thighs, etc. and primarily affects the hair follicles. You may contract this infection if you are using any dirty equipment or if you sweat excessively in the gym. It is advisable that you must avoid wearing tight-fitting clothes in the gym as it may cause friction which can further aggravate this disease.
4. Plantar Warts
Plantar warts are lumpy growth in the skin that occurs on your soles and feet. It is caused by human papillomavirus, a particular virus that attacks the bottom of the feet and causes warts. Humid places like locker rooms and pools are common breeding areas for this type of infection. Plantar warts are mostly painful and make it difficult for the patient to walk. It is commonly contracted when walking barefoot in an area where a person who also has warts on the feet has walked before.
5. Staphylococcal skin infections
It is one of the most common types of infection that you can contract in the gym and appears as a red boil that can ooze pus. This infection, if severe, can cause fever, chills, sweat, and weakness and is a contagious disease. Staph usually transmits through physical touch and surfaces like a contaminated bench. In case you have an open wound the bacteria can easily enter and multiply which can make it life-threatening. If you have any symptoms, then you must consult a doctor. Recent times have seen an increase in MRSA- Methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus which is a particularly nasty and resistant infection treat.
Suggesting how can you prevent yourself from contracting infections at the gym, Dr Shireen Furtado recommended –
- Wear loose clothes
- Cover open wounds and wear shoes while working out
- Disinfect equipment
- Wash hands and take a shower after the workout
