Athletes Vulnerable to Skin Diseases, Say Doctors

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Dermatologists in the United States are now trying to educate sports athletes and their coaches about the popular skin illnesses that can occur due to bacteria, viruses and fungi and how they can stop them.

In the annual meeting at the 69th Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Dermatology, Brian B. Adams, associate professor of dermatology at the University of Cincinnati School of Medicine, spoke about the skin diseases that could arise owing to the to the skin-to-skin make contact with among athletes.

Skin diseases normal amongst athletes
Adams stated that outbreaks of skin conditions like methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), ringworm and herpes are fairly popular all through the globe among high school students, college goers and professional athletes who indulged in regular sports activities.

"These skin conditions are highly contagious and can spread through sports teams quite immediately, specially if they are not immediately diagnosed and contained. That is why athletes will need to be aware of these risks and how to spot the warning signs of a skin infection," he added.

Two common skin conditions observed amongst wrestlers are impetigo and herpes simplex. Impetigo is extremely contagious skin illness in which crusted, red patches develop on the skin and are sometimes irritatingly itchy. These commonly develop into blisters.

Impetigo is frequently triggered by MRSA, a strain of bacteria that is resistant to prevalent antibiotics. Symtpoms of MRSA infection can typically manifest as pimple or abscess with draining pus.

MRSA infections are often seen among footballers. On the other hand, herpes simplex can lead to blisters about the mouth, nose, buttocks or genitals. Among fungal infections, ringworm and athlete's foot had been most frequent among athletes.

Prevention far better than remedy
Mr. Brian urged athletes, coaches and those active in sports to be aware of these risks and to see a physician immediately if any symptoms are noticed, even if it is a hassle-free rash or sore.