You go to the gym to be healthy, but wait what about hygiene!
Gyms are the favorite places for some. People who love to workout can be seen in gyms mostly. Also, growing awareness around health and diseases which happen due to unhealthy lifestyle is increasing the demand for gyms. Gyms work in shifts and it is likely that a single machine/ equipment is being used by several people within a short span of time.
This draws our attention towards gym hygiene.
Impetigo
This is a type of skin infection caused by bacteria. It starts with a red and itchy spot which grows and oozes leaving behind yellow scab. This spreads from one infected person to a healthy individual by physical contact.
Ringworm
Caused by fungi, ringworm spreads between human beings upon touching infected places or a person. It is characterized by a ring shaped infection which is red and scaly. These patches are extremely itchy and have a stinging sensation.
Folliculitis
This is a skin infection caused by bacteria. These look like red and itchy acne. Do not scratch them if you see them on your skin. Scratching these will make it spread across the body, might get difficult to treat and might also cause permanent scar.
Athlete's foot
This is a very common fungal infection and is known as Tinea pedis. It occurs in the feet and gives a burning sensation. Avoid scratching your feet with your hands as it might transfer to your hands.
Jock itch
This usually happens in the groin region. It is also known as tinea curis and is a fungal infection. It causes itchy, flaky skin which grows to reddish and painful sores.
Influenza
The risk of getting a contagious virus as the flu virus increases in a closed space like gym. Body fluids like sweat, sneeze and cough increase the risk of the infection.
HPV
Human papillomavirus is another risk lurking in the gym. It causes warts and one can pick these viruses by walking barefoot inside the gym. Plantar wart is a common infection caused by HPV.
Hygiene tips to follow
Avoid sharing belongings inside the gym. No matter how close you are to a person do not use their towels, bottles and other personal belongings. Never walk barefoot. Infections usually begin in the foot and with scratching they spread to the whole body. When using any machine or equipment, clean it first. Carry a packet of wipes and a bottle of hand sanitizer to the gym.