No athlete would ever want to sit on the side line because of a skin infection. But, they are the ones who are always at high risk of getting contagious skin infections. However, these infections are initially mild and treatable, but prevention is always better than cure. So, watch out for the three most important and common skin infections among athletes and their prevention.
- Herpes- The same virus that causes cold sores in the mouth is the reason behind this infection too. Painful blisters with clear fluid surrounded by redness is how it can be identified.
- Ringworm- This is a fungal skin infection which makes the skin dry, itchy and red with circular patches.
- Staph- The source of this infection is a bacteria which causes one or more painful sores, surrounded by pus.
Now, you must be wondering how to prevent herpes? Or, how to prevent ringworm or staph infection? If yes, then you don’t need to go places searching, to know about them. We’ve got it all covered for you. All you need to do, to prevent the infection is follow clear and simple tips given below:
1. Report All Kinds Of Skin Infection
The first step towards a better skin care is, to be aware of it. Do not delay, act on even a mild sore, rash or a skin infection immediately. Let your coach or trainer know about it and then get them treated by a medical practitioner.
2. Cover Your Wounds
After getting a proper treatment for your lesions, rashes, sores or wounds cover them with a water-proof bandage so that no fluid can drain out from it. Change the bandage regularly. Dispose it off properly, so no one gets in direct contact with it. Be responsible!
3. Big No To Sharing Of Personal Items
The last thing you should do whether you have a skin condition or not is, share your personal items like your towel, clothes, soap, razor, toothbrushes, topical medications and many more. Personal items are said to be personal for a reason. Along with them remember not to share anything that touches the infected skin area, lips or something that enters the mouth like water bottles.
4. Wash Your Hands Frequently
After using shared equipment, like free weights and barbell or even after getting in contact with a potentially infectious wound, soiled bandages, skin or objects. Make sure, to wash your hands well under running water with an antifugal soap with natural oils in it for 15 -20 seconds.
5. Showering Is Not Optional
It is highly recommended that you shower immediately after the practice or a game. Because, it’s the sweat that causes all the trouble. So, use warm water and the best antifungal body wash for athletes. Use your own towel and clothes. Do not share with anyone else.
6. Wash Your Clothes Regularly
When it comes to washing clothes we all do get a bit lazy, but you should not! This is where those pesky germs/bacterias grow. Make sure to wash them regularly with a good quality detergent and lukewarm water. And, don’t over look your sports bag because it needs to be washed frequently as well.
7. Disinfect The Equipment
Follow the instructions of your coach to disinfect and clean the shared equipments like mats. Apart form them, make some time daily to disinfect your own personal gears. For them, follow the instructions given by the manufacture.
Follow these well known dermatologist approved tips and stay away from skin infection that can cost you your career or your life. Long live and prosper!
Disinfecting the equipment is key! Use Clear Gear on everything- mats, machines, uniforms, pads – because it disinfects and deodarizes everything without harming it.