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BEWARE! 5 Highly Contagious Infections You Can Pick Up At The Gym
Those who love exercising in the gym also get exposed to various bacterial, viral, and fungal infections, which according to health experts are spread either due to shared equipment or the warm and humid environment in a closed room. Read on to know all about these chronic, contagious skin diseases.
Updated Jun 13, 2023 | 07:12 AM IST
Using shared workout equipment leads to certain skin infections at the gym
New Delhi: Exercising at the gymnasium is not only effective for the body, as it helps in toning and strengthening it, but also helps relieve stress and boosts energy levels. According to health experts, regular gymming is associated with many powerful health benefits, including a reduced risk of chronic diseases.
However, these sweat-inducing workouts can cause severe infections as well, many of which are highly contagious and are caused due to sweat.
What Causes the spread of infections in gyms?
Skin specialists say some of the infections are spread by contact as many types of bacteria, viruses, and fungi thrive in warm, closed, and moist environments around the gym.
Using shared workout equipment like dumbbells, kettlebells, yoga mats, etc. cause the germs to come directly in contact with your skin, eventually leading to certain skin conditions.
Skin Infections at the Gym
According to studies1, bacteria leading to potential skin infections and illnesses are on 10-30 per cent of gym surfaces.
A few common skin infections include:
Ringworm
A fungal infection, ringworm appears on the skin as a round, itchy, rash and can occur on any part of your body, including your scalp.
It causes severe itching and spreads fast from one body part to another. Ringworms thrive in warm and moist areas, so sweaty equipment or benches can be the risky points.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, ringworm begins to appear within 3-10 days after you come in touch with the fungus and can be treated with various antifungal creams, lotions, and sprays.
Athlete’s foot
Also known as tenia pedis, an athlete’s foot is a common fungal infection that causes itchy, dry, red, and sometimes flaky skin eruptions, creating cracks and fissures on the skin. It mostly occurs between and around the toes, or the entire bottom of the foot, making it extremely painful.
According to doctors, it is caused by fungi Trichophyton rubrum which multiplies faster when your feet remain moist due to sweat. It causes a burning sensation in the affected area. Treatments2 for the infection include anti-fungal ointments, creams, and gels.
Also, keeping your toes clean and dry can help stop further spread of the infection.
Folliculitis
It is an extremely painful, itchy condition that causes red coloured bumps, similar to acne. Many people also experience a burning sensation on the affected skin3.
It causes a bacterial infection in the hair follicles and roots occurring on your neck, armpits, and thighs. You may develop the infection if you sweat excessively or by using dirty equipment.
Warts
Warts are lumpy, rough growth in the skin that occurs on the soles of your feet. Also known as verrucae warts, these are caused by human papillomavirus which attacks due to a warm, humid environment in the gym.
Most people who have this infection get it aggravated if there is an open wound or cut as it makes it easier for the virus to enter your body, causing immense pain and difficulty in walking.
Staph
Staph, also known as staphylococcus, is a kind of bacterial infection that aggravates when you have a scratch or cut on your skin. It causes the bacteria to easily enter your body.
It causes swollen and painful red boils and is highly contagious as it spreads due to shared gym equipment, clothing, and towels.
Disclaimer: Tips and suggestions mentioned in the article are for general information purposes only and should not be construed as professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a dietician before starting any fitness programme or making any changes to your diet.
End of Article
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