What is Ringworm and Why is It So Prevalent in BJJ or Other Grappling Sports?
So what is ringworm?
It’s a fungal infection common in both indoor and outdoor areas. A fungus called Dermatophyton causes this infection, which is common on the skin of people and animals.
- Ringworm can affect any part of the body. But most commonly, it appears on the hands, feet, head, neck, and scalp.
- This fungus thrives in warm and humid environments. Therefore it is common to find ringworm in places like schools or sports facilities.
- Ringworm also spreads easily through contact with infected hair, skin, or clothing. The disease can be difficult to treat because it tends to multiply quickly.
Approximately 40 different species of fungi can cause ringworm. But there is no need to worry. There are many ways to prevent ringworm from spreading.
The infection is treatable, along with personal hygiene and the using theright medication.
And remember, if you do contract the disease, always be sure to see your doctor for treatment.
How to Prevent Ringworm in Grappling Sports like BJJ – Tips to Avoid Ringworm
There are a few things that you can do to help prevent ringworm in grappling sports like BJJ.
- Avoid tight-fitting clothes. The disease spreads through contact with the fungus. So clothing that is too tight can cause skin irritation. And ultimately the spread of the fungus. Therefore loose-fitting clothing is best for preventing ringworm.
- Use a daily cream or lotion that contains zinc oxide or another anti-fungal agent. This will help to keep your skin healthy and free from infection.
- Wash your hands frequently, especially before and after touching your skin. Handwashing is one of the most important steps you can take to prevent ringworm.
- Be aware of the symptoms of the infection. If you notice any redness, bumps, or itching on your skin, be sure to see a doctor for a diagnosis and treatment.
- Keep your environment clean. If you live in a dirty area, be sure to clean up any dirt or debris that may spread the fungus.
- Avoid wearing clothes that are made from synthetic materials. These materials can easily trap moisture and fungus, which can then cause infection.
What Causes Ringworm and How Is It Transmitted?
It’s a fungal infection of the skin caused by several different species of fungi. The most common type of fungus that causes ringworm is called dermatophyte
Dermatophytes are fungi that grow on the surface of the skin and can cause infections in numerous areas, including the scalp, beard, eyebrows, and fingernails.
It is highly contagious and can spread quickly. But how is the infection transmitted?
There are 4 main ways to catch ringworm:
- Human to another human: Ringworm frequently spreads through direct skin-to-skin contact with an infected person.
- Object to humans: it can also spread through contact with objects or surfaces touched or rubbed against by an infected person. Examples are clothing, towels, bedding and linens, combs, and brushes.
- From animals to humans: some people also get infected while petting or grooming animals.
- From soil to human: the disease can also be transmitted to humans in rare cases through contact with infected soil. But, only prolonged contact with highly infected soil would most likely result in infection.
Ringworm Treatment – What Should You Do if You Think You Have Ringworm?
Ringworm Treatment – if you think you may have ringworm, there are a few things you can do to check for it and treat it.
First, see your doctor to get a proper diagnosis.
If you have ringworm, several different treatments are available, so it is important to choose the one that will work best for you.
One of the most common ways to treat ringworm is with over-the-counter medications such as terbinafine (Lamisil).
These medications can be effective in treating most cases of ringworm. However, some people may need to use them for several months or even years. So it is important to continue taking them even if the symptoms disappear.
If over-the-counter medications don’t work or if someone has a severe case of ringworm, they may need to see a specialist known as a dermatologist. A dermatologist can prescribe stronger medications such as ketoconazole (Nizoral) or itraconazole (Sporanox). These medications may require regular doses for several months or even years.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ringworm:
Can Ringworm Kill You?
The answer is no. However, you need to seek treatment or ask a medical professional for assistance and further information.
The disease is contagious. And will slowly spread through the skin over time if it is not treated. Also, it may cause too much discomfort because of the itchiness. Thus affecting your focus in everything you do.
Moreover, if the infection is extensive, doctors may perform surgery to remove the fungus from the skin.
Can Ringworm Cause a Staph Infection?
No, ringworm is not the same as a staph infection. Ringworm is a fungal or skin infection caused by mold-like fungi called dermatophytes. It usually appears as red or silver patches on the skin and can spread to other parts of the body.
A staph infection, on the other hand, is an infection caused by the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus. It typically appears as small red bumps that can become filled with pus or turn into large painful boils.
Both conditions can cause itching, burning, and soreness. However, they are not caused by the same organism and thus, require different treatments.
Will Ringworm Go Away on Its Own?
Ringworm can sometimes go away on its own without any treatment. But it’s rare. And if it does, it usually takes weeks or even months. Most commonly, it doesn’t go away on its own.
This is why it’s important to seek medical advice if you suspect that you may have the infection. Treatment with antifungal medications can speed up the healing process and reduce the risk of complications.
Treatment is also important to prevent the spread of ringworm to other parts of the body or to other people. Especially if you’re training on BJJ. It’s always best to consult with your doctor as soon as you suspect you may have ringworm so that you can start treatment right away.
Can I Still Workout With Ringworm?
Yes, you can still do workout with ringworm. But in non-contact sports only. For example, you can weight lift but you should not engage in close contact activities like grappling.
It is important to take certain precautions in order to prevent the spread of infection. So, if you have ringworm, avoid activities that involve skin-to-skin contact and sharing equipment with other people. This means avoiding contact sports including BJJ because it involves grappling.
How Long is Ringworm Contagious for BJJ Training?
The truth is the infection is contagious until it has been treated with antifungal medication. As a general rule, anyone who has had active lesions or signs of ringworm should not train in BJJ.
He can then return to BJJ once the symptoms clear up and they have seen their doctor or pharmacist for the appropriate medication.
Remember, it is important to stay out of the BJJ environment until you have been treated with antifungal medication. Doing so will help stop the spread of infection and keep everyone safe!
When Can I Get Back to BJJ After Ringworm?
A few factors influence the answer to this question. To begin, ensure that the ringworm has been completely treated and is no longer contagious. This could take up to four weeks in some cases.
Following treatment, you may be able to resume BJJ training as long as you do not have any open sores or lesions that could potentially spread the infection.
Why Do I Keep Getting Ringworm?
The most common way to get ringworm is through direct contact with someone who has the infection.
In addition, it often spreads by sharing personal items previously exposed to the fungus, such as combs, brushes, hats, and clothes. Furthermore, it’s even possible to get ringworm from handling contaminated objects like furniture or rugs.
So, to prevent yourself from getting the infection, it’s important to shower before and after BJJ training. Also, wash your BJJ gear – gi and no gi apparel immediately after training and let it hang dry. You can also use wipes immediately after training if it’s convenient to do so.
What Are Some Other Common BJJ Skin Infections?
Besides ringworm, there are also other skin infections common to BJJ practitioners.
- Staph infections – caused by bacteria, usually start as a red, itchy rash and can progress to a more serious infection if not treated
- Folliculitis – is an inflammation of the hair follicle caused by bacteria, fungi, or viruses.
- Tinea cruris (jock itch) – a fungal infection that commonly affects the groin area.
- Impetigo – bacterial infection of the skin that appears as fluid-filled blisters or sores that may crust over.
