Most of us feel better and more energized when we exercise. However, for some people, physical activity can trigger a range of symptoms, from hives to breathing difficulties.
This condition, known as exercise-induced allergy, is not very common, but it can be a serious problem for those affected by it.
What Is Exercise-Induced Allergy?
Exercise-induced allergy is a type of physical allergy triggered by physical activity. This condition is also known as exercise-induced anaphylaxis (EIA) or exercise-induced urticaria/angioedema (EIU).
In people with EIA, symptoms can start during or shortly after exercise. The severity of the symptoms can vary from person to person, ranging from mild to life-threatening.
Some people may experience mild itching or tingling on the skin, while others may develop hives, swelling, and difficulty breathing.
In rare cases, EIA can lead to anaphylactic shock, a potentially life-threatening reaction that can cause a rapid drop in blood pressure and lead to unconsciousness or even death.
What Causes Exercise-Induced Allergy?
The exact cause of EIA is not well understood, but researchers believe that it might be related to the body’s immune system overreacting to certain substances released during exercise.
Some people may also develop EIA in reaction to certain foods, such as wheat, peanuts, or shellfish, that they’ve consumed before exercising. This type of exercise-induced allergy is known as food-dependent exercise-induced anaphylaxis (FDEIA).
It’s also worth noting that EIA seems to affect women more than men, and it’s usually diagnosed in people between the ages of 10 and 30.
Diagnosing Exercise-Induced Allergy
If you’re experiencing symptoms that seem to be related to exercise, it’s important to see a doctor as soon as possible. Your doctor may ask about your medical history and conduct a physical exam to check for signs of an allergic reaction.
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They may also perform allergy testing to see if you’re allergic to any specific substances.
In some cases, your doctor may recommend a physical challenge test, where you’ll be asked to exercise while being closely monitored for signs of an allergic reaction. This test can help to confirm a diagnosis of exercise-induced allergy.
Treating Exercise-Induced Allergy
If you’ve been diagnosed with EIA, your doctor may prescribe medications to help manage your symptoms.
Common treatments include antihistamines, which can help to reduce itching and swelling, and epinephrine, which can be used in severe cases to quickly reverse symptoms of anaphylaxis.
In addition to medication, you may be advised to avoid certain triggers that can make your symptoms worse.
This might include avoiding certain foods before exercising or limiting your physical activity in certain environments, such as in cold weather or during times of high pollen counts.
Preventing Exercise-Induced Allergy
While EIA can be challenging to manage, there are steps you can take to help prevent it from occurring in the first place. Some strategies that might help include:.
- Warming up before exercising
- Exercising in cool, dry environments
- Avoiding triggers like certain foods or medications before exercising
- Staying hydrated before, during, and after physical activity
- Carrying emergency medications like epinephrine with you at all times
The Bottom Line
If you’re experiencing symptoms during or after exercising, don’t ignore them. See a doctor as soon as possible to get a proper diagnosis and treatment.
While exercise-induced allergy can be challenging to manage, there are effective treatments available that can help you to maintain an active and healthy lifestyle.
