What Skin Infections Can You Get From Wrestling?

Wrestling is a physically demanding sport that involves close contact between competitors. With this close physical contact comes an increased risk of skin infections. In this article, we will explore the various skin infections that wrestlers are susceptible to and how to prevent and treat them.

Skin Infections Commonly Seen in Wrestlers:

Wrestlers are prone to several skin infections due to the nature of their sport. These infections can be caused by bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most common skin infections seen in wrestlers:

1. Ringworm (Tinea Corporis):

Ringworm is a fungal infection that commonly affects wrestlers.

It presents as a circular rash with raised edges and a clear center, resembling a ring. The infection can be spread through direct skin-to-skin contact or by touching contaminated surfaces such as mats or towels.

2. Impetigo:

Impetigo is a bacterial infection caused by Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria.

It typically appears as red sores on the face, hands, or other exposed areas of the body. Impetigo spreads easily through skin-to-skin contact and can cause itching and discomfort.

3. Herpes Gladiatorum:

Herpes Gladiatorum, also known as “mat herpes,” is caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV).

This viral infection presents as clusters of painful blisters on the face, neck, or trunk areas of the body. Herpes Gladiatorum can be transmitted through direct contact with open sores or by sharing contaminated items like towels or equipment.

4. Staph Infections:

Staph infections are caused by the Staphylococcus aureus bacteria, which commonly reside on the skin or in the nose.

When the skin is broken, such as during wrestling, these bacteria can enter the body and cause an infection. Staph infections often appear as red, swollen, and painful areas on the skin and may require medical attention.

Prevention and Treatment:

Preventing skin infections in wrestling is crucial for both individual wrestlers and the entire team. Here are some preventive measures to follow:

• Practice Good Hygiene: Encourage wrestlers to shower immediately after practice or competition using antibacterial soap. Clean wrestling gear, including mats and towels, regularly.
• Avoid Sharing Personal Items: Wrestlers should never share personal items like towels, headgear, or clothing that comes into contact with their skin.
• Maintain Skin Integrity: Keep nails short to minimize the risk of scratches or breaks in the skin. Any open wounds should be covered with a clean bandage until healed.
• Frequent Washing of Wrestling Gear: Wash all wrestling gear, including singlets, headgear, knee pads, and shoes after each use to prevent the growth of bacteria or fungi.

If a wrestler develops a skin infection despite preventive measures, prompt treatment is essential to prevent its spread. It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional who can diagnose the infection and provide appropriate treatment options such as topical or oral medications.

In Conclusion:

In conclusion, wrestlers are at risk of several skin infections due to close physical contact with opponents and contaminated surfaces. Being aware of the common infections, practicing good hygiene, and taking preventive measures can significantly reduce the risk of contracting these infections. Prompt treatment by a healthcare professional is essential if an infection occurs to prevent its spread and ensure a speedy recovery.