More skin problems for athletes than just the foot

One of the fondest memoirs students carry over from school is the trophy they won in some athletic event. Athletics form a major activity in school, apart from academics and infatuations. Recent research shows that athletic glory may also not come without its risks. Research conducted by the American Academy of Dermatology points out that many athletes do not realise that some sports may cause skin conditions which affect their peak performance. Experts believe that some skin problems like blisters, acne, boils and sunburns, are common in athletes. Over a long period of time, these conditions may hinder the athletes' performance to the point that the sport may have to be abandoned. However, there is associated good news also. Experts say that most of these conditions are completely treatable, provided the treatment is sought in time. Blisters are formed due to the skin's friction against the garment. Compounded by perspiration and heat, these blisters become painful and reduce performance. This problem seems to affect tennis players the most and the best way to reduce them is to keep the skin well lubricated so that it does not rub against the fabric. Acrylic socks seem to help more than cotton ones. Acne is a problem faced commonly by hockey and football players. Synthetic clothing like shoulder pads and helmets cause acne on the neck and shoulders of players. The solution is to change into clean gear soon after the match and apply a soothing solution. Sunburns are a real threat to swimmers and over exposure to UV rays may cause skin cancer in the long run. To ward off the effects of sun rays, athletes must use a good sunscreen with an SPF (sun protection factor) of more than 15. Though most of the conditions are often avoidable, most athletes do not follow the instructions carefully enough. If these were to be followed judiciously, not only will their career be long, but healthy too.

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