Gym Member Loses Hair Due to Parasite Found on Unclean Exercise Equipment
Warning for All Avid Gym-Goers
Fitness enthusiast Hillary Nguyen recently shared a video on TikTok describing the health crisis she dealt with after interacting with dirty gym equipment.
“PSA to all my gym girlies, if you’re not wiping down every single piece of equipment before you use it you’re gonna want to start,” Nguyen said, per Daily Dot, in a clip shared on the now-defunct video-sharing platform.
Scalp Ringworm Diagnosis
Nguyen continued, “Three months ago I discovered that I had scalp ringworm and it literally made me go bald,” she explained
Treatment and Recovery
In another video, Nguyen said that her scalp improved after three months of treatment.
The Importance of Gym Sanitation
According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD), people are at risk of getting ringworm at the gym.
“This is because bacteria, viruses, and fungi that cause skin infections to develop, thrive in warm, moist places like sweaty exercise equipment and locker room showers,” the AAD’s website says.
Tips for Preventing Skin Infections at the Gym
The AAD recommends several tips for preventing skin infections at the gym, including:
- Wearing loose-fitting, moisture-wicking clothes
- Always wearing shoes
- Disinfecting equipment before and after using it
- Washing or sanitizing your hands immediately after working out
- Showering as soon as possible
Viewers Weigh In
Viewers weighed in on Nguyen’s PSA about gym sanitation in the comments section.
“I sanitize my phone with alcohol wipes and wash my hands right after the gym. I’m so scared to catch something!!! No one wipes stuff down at my gym,” one person wrote.
Another said, “Well new fear re-unlocked. I do wipe all equipment but this was like not an active conscious thought about ringworm avoidance til now.”
Someone else commented, “I got ringworm from the mats at my gym a while back it sucked! Def bring wipes and disinfectant if you can [i know] some gyms don’t keep up with it like they should.”
Conclusion
It is crucial for gym-goers to prioritize gym sanitation and take necessary precautions to prevent skin infections. Remember to always disinfect equipment, wear clean clothes, and shower regularly to keep yourself healthy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is ringworm?
A: Ringworm is a type of fungal infection that can affect the scalp, causing hair loss and itching.
Q: How do I prevent ringworm at the gym?
A: Follow the tips provided by the AAD, such as disinfecting equipment, wearing clean clothes, and showering regularly.
Q: Can ringworm be treated?
A: Yes, ringworm can be treated with antifungal medication and cream. It is essential to seek medical attention if you suspect you have ringworm.