Allergic to exercise?

Jenny Villard, St. Louis, MO — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 13:31:01 GMT

Finally! I feel validated! For 25+ years my legs will start itching when I run or walk briskly. Although it doesn't seem to happen on the eliptical machine at the gym (less jarring?) One doctor said it's a histamine reaction and to take a Benedryl before going out.

Allergic to exercise?

Robyn, Jacksonville — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 14:20:40 GMT

I've been saying that I was allergic to exercise for years. Although I don't have serious symptoms, I would have red, watery eyes, sneezing fits, and a nose tickle for hours after a good cardio workout.

Allergic to exercise?

Jane Bleau, Richmond, VA — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 14:26:24 GMT

I take a Claritin each morning -- doc's recommendation -- and that stopped the hives I always used to get while running. Nice to know I'm not the only mutant.

Allergic to exercise?

Elle, Fort Wayne, IN — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 15:08:42 GMT

This explains the hives I've gotten a few times after running...I think I'd eaten peanut butter right before, too. I just thought it was the detergent I had used or something, but maybe not! I guess I'll have to be more aware of it now, especially since it caused at least one death!

Allergic to exercise?

Joanie B., Framingham, MA — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 15:24:48 GMT

I've had this in the past, hives, vomiting, diarrhea, swollen eyes and lips, severe abdominal cramps, all brought on by running. I could never find a common trigger, eating, not eating, hot weather, cool weather; nothing besides simply going out for a run. The reactions coincidently subsided after I cleared up a long struggle with iron deficiency which I believe was caused by the existence of the h.pylori bacteria in my digestive system. Once I was rid of the h.pylori (after a round of antibiotics) iron levels increased and these strange and frightening reactions stopped.

Allergic to exercise?

Ann, Seattle, WA — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 15:26:56 GMT

I am afraid to work out vigorously because my face breaks out in a very painful rash. I would rush home afterwards in tears and put cold washcloths on my face to help ease the pain. I always used to joke that I was allergic to exercise/sweating, but it seems like I might actually be. I wonder if a Benadryl after a workout would help... I could workout at night and that way if I got drowsy it wouldn't be a bad thing. I think I'll try it.

Allergic to exercise?

W. Prato, Rio Rancho, NM — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 15:55:24 GMT

I would develop really bad hives when I would start to sweat while exercising. After two ER visits, I was told that I had Exercise-Induced Anaphylaxis. I carried a kit like you would use for bee stings. Never had to give myself a shot, because Benadryl usually worked. But I started to dread working out. I never knew how bad it would get and it scared me!

Allergic to exercise?

J Aviles, Tucson AZ — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 16:04:15 GMT

Exercise-induced urticaria happened to me. Ultimately my doctor and I figured out I was allergic to fosamax. After I quit taking the drug and it dissipated from my system (took about 4 months) I never had the problem again. I have maintained bone health using weights, eating healthily, and taking Citrical and Vitamin D3.

Allergic to exercise?

Casey, Austin, TX — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 16:11:32 GMT

The only time I got my exercise induced hives was from my indoor, masters swim practices. Those workouts were harder than any other I've ever done and the hives were everywhere; on my body, in my ears, on my scalp, and in my eyes. Unfortunately, the only cure was to swim out of doors in an unheated pool, where I could better manage my core temperature. However, it's important to note that swim workouts can make you as hot as a good long run.

Allergic to exercise?

Bob Grames, Francis, Utah — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 16:21:04 GMT

I've had it for years. Though it nearly killed me a couple of times, it's managed by waiting a minimum of two hours before exercising and taking a Zyrtec. I also had it come on doing less stringent activities like lawn mowing. If you're diagnosed with this, keep an Epipen in with you on long runs. I keep on in my pocket all the time.

Allergic to exercise?

Laura W, Orlando, Florida — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 16:24:29 GMT

Starting in my mid 20's I would come down with hives covering my entire body, starting with my scalp and hands. Exercise would cause it along with anything that raised my body temperature: getting into a hot car, taking a hot shower. One time I laughed too hard in a movie theater and it took 30 minutes for the intense itching & burning sensation to subside. My doctors & allergists were not able to help me. I finally found a wonderful doctor and together we systematically went down the list of different antihistamines. I tried quite a few with no positive results until Zyrtec. For me, it keeps the hives away and I'm thrilled to be able to exercise again (and laugh at funny movies!) Thank you for your article! Its the first one like it that I've come across. This condition really affects a person's quality of life, so I'm glad you're providing information that can help other people.

Allergic to exercise?

Matt, Biloxi, MS — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 17:23:48 GMT

WOW! I never would have thought it. Everytime I walk briskly my upper legs and thighs itch like crazy! So bad at times I have to actually stop and scratch them. But then, the more I scratch, the more they itch. It only happens from my knees up to my waistline on my legs. So strange. Like Jenny in St. Louis, I never have that problem on the eliptical either, and rarely when I run. Only from a brisk walk or even moderate walk outdoors. I'll try the Benedryl thing.

Allergic to exercise?

Stephanie, Texas — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 17:40:16 GMT

Wow! I am glad to see an article on this. I actually have both exercise induces anaphlaxys and heat induces uticaria and they are not food allergy realated and when I tell people, they think it is the crazies thing they have ever heard. My reactions started happening about 2 years ago but my Doctor told me there was a good chance that it will also go away. Mine were so severe that I now have to take a EPI pin with me to the gym and the staff know where I keep it. But luckily my daily antihistimene medicine, inhaler, and liquid benedryl keep it almost totally under control with the execption of a couple of small issues. Glad to hear I'm not THAT weird...LOL.

Allergic to exercise?

Reg Dallas, TX — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 17:49:54 GMT

Jenny, my wife has the same issue, she takes a Clariton an hour before and she's fine.

Allergic to exercise?

Jen Garcia, Dayton OH — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 17:53:21 GMT

I've had this disease since my teens and after years of frustration and searching for a cure (not to mention feeling like a freak for being allergic to exercise), I got a new physician who recommended simply taking 10 mg of loratadine (generic Clairatin) several hours before exercising. it works! such a simple answer for a truly debilitating problem!

Allergic to exercise?

Jen Garcia, Dayton OH — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 17:53:51 GMT

Allergic to exercise?

Thu, 17 Jul 2008 17:55:36 GMT

doctors are idiots. they don't even ask what are your symptoms. they just ask, whats wrong and give u medication. not knowing your history or what you do, pills are there answer.

Allergic to exercise?

Tiare, Citrus Heights, CA — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 17:55:40 GMT

I am 32 years old, and I have suffered from cholinergic urticaria since I was 21. Whenever I exercise, I get this terrible hot flush, accompanied by uncontrollable itchiness that gets worse and worse until I just feel like I'm going to die. The only way to make it go away is to sit very still for a long time. Forget swimming...I can only do three laps before it begins. It's awful!!

It really puts a cramp in your lifestyle, espcially when you're used to being active, like I was. I went to four doctors over the years, but I wasn't diagnosed until a year ago! Unfortunately, nothing really helps keep the symptoms at bay. I've tried Claritin, Zyrtec (helped, but HMO says no way, no prescription), and Benadryl, which makes me sleepy. If anyone else has found ways to cope with this condition, please share!! It's tough to be a busy mom of three kids and have cholinergic urticaria.

Allergic to exercise?

Kimberly, Atlanta, GA — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 18:04:25 GMT

I too consistently experience a skin reaction when participating in aerobic exercise. Red, splotchy, itchy whelps all over my legs-worse on upper portion. Irritating-YES, debilitating-NO. But, diphenhydramine (Benedryl) makes me sleepy and uncoordinated (not a good combo when on a treadmill) so I stick to other OTC non-drowsy antihistamines. Thanks for this article and for the assurance that I am not alone!!!

Allergic to exercise?

June Mallard, Myrtle Beach, SC — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 18:32:23 GMT

I've also read that if people - especially women - haven't worked out recently, the capillaries in their upper legs will itch and burn because they are not used to the rush of blood pumping through them.

Allergic to exercise?

Susan, Rockville, Maryland — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 19:13:08 GMT

Wow! I was diagnosed with exercised induced anaphylaxis 20 years ago. My face hands and feet would swell to double their normal size and my throat would swell almost completely shut. The the hives would appear. I had no idea I was dagerously close to death or that exercise was the trigger until I saw an allergist. I avoid eating at least 2 hours before exercising and keep benedryl handy but have not had an attack in years.

Allergic to exercise?

Susan, Rockville, Maryland — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 19:16:06 GMT

PS. I should have read the article before jumping in with my earlier comment...my food trigger is raw celery. I avoid it at all cost regardless of my exercise plans eventhough I did not test positive to celery during the allergy tests

Allergic to exercise?

Tottie, Chicago, IL — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 19:17:15 GMT

I thought it was strange that every time I get on the elliptical or try running on the treadmill I throw up and can't walk. The stomach pain is unbearable and sometimes, I even pass out. Some people have told me I'm working out too hard, but really, I'm not working any harder than a typcial gym goer (I don't go to the gym anymore for these reasons). I do my own workouts and they seem to be doing great. I only do small amounts of exertion at a time and walk instead of run now. Now I know that there might be a reason behind my aversion to running.

Allergic to exercise?

Lincoln Anderson, New York City, NY — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 19:28:03 GMT

When I was 17 and nervous about taking the S.A.T. the next morning, I went for a jog that night to try to relax. When I came back to my house, I was covered in pink/red hives. I thought it was related to anxiety over the test -- and, after reading this article, it seems that exercise may have also played a role. Maybe I did eat something before exercising -- I used to like to eat peanut butter on celery (a double-whammy according to the article) but it's been too many years to remember. But maybe now I know why I had hives that one time -- the only time in my life like that.

Allergic to exercise?

Jennifer Anderson, Dallas, TX — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 19:28:13 GMT

This has happened to me since I was a teenager and usually happened while jogging. I had it happen once while dancing but my face swells and my entire body feels like my skin is on fire! It starts in my hands and feet - they get a moddled look - then comes the pins and needles. I will feel like i have something stuck in my throat and my tongue starts to itch and swell. I usually know to jump off and exit the gym asap and get home and take two Benadryl. It settles the symptoms after a few minutes but after that I am dizzy and lightheaded. I always knew it was something to do with food and now I am careful not to eat four hours before strenuous activity and I have found that taking a prescription strength allergy medication everyday helps curb the attacks. I have asked every single doctor that I could find about it and they had never heard of it. I have a severe case...it can be embarassing and very scary when you are alone. I usually make sure to tell the staff of whatever gym I'm in what my condition is and so if it happens and I can't get to my bag, they know I need the Benadryl. I've been lucky thought to have caught it. The only place I could find anything out about it was the internet on medical sites. It's been crazy! I am sorry you all suffer with this, too but I'm glad to know I'm not the only one! I thought I had a birth defect.

Allergic to exercise?

Kel, Chicago IL — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 20:17:53 GMT

I nearly died from an allergic reaction to exercise. The paramedics lost me twice on the way to the hospital. It came on without any prior warning. BTW, I have these without eating food. It's the scariest thing ever. Have to talk myself down from the ledge each time I work out or break into a sweat.

Allergic to exercise?

heather, canton, ohio — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 21:28:13 GMT

i have to get light box therapy at least 3 days a week to control my itching. it is also brought on my water, wind, sun, walking, sweating, stress- almost anything. the lightbox, plus my pepcid and zyrtec and benedryl and one other med (the name escapes me) keeps my itching under control. i take the meds daily. i also use aveeno lotion and sometimes need the aveeno oatmeal bath. ironically, i didn't itch in the south- only when i moved to the north.

Allergic to exercise?

Nikhil Patel, Houston, TX — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 21:37:16 GMT

YOU PEOPLE ARE LAZY! ITS CALLED BEING OUT OF SHAPE! Get out there & exercise more often & you will no longer feel sick.

Allergic to exercise?

Julie, Toronto, ON — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 21:38:49 GMT

I don't have this condition but when I had hives from an allergic reaction to penicillin, I used Aerius when Benadryl made me too sleepy to stay awake during my University lectures. Yo umight want to try that, it's non-drowsy.

Allergic to exercise?

KellyK, TX — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 22:26:58 GMT

While I don't have this particular condition, I do have exercise induced asthma. Can't run more than about 100 yard before breathing is actually painful. Unfortunately no medication helps. Hopefully they'll find a cure someday.

Allergic to exercise?

Sarah, Tri-Cities WA — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 23:12:03 GMT

I remember breaking out in hives as early as 8 years old when I played soccer as a kid. Everyone else shrugged it off as a minor grass allergy. Since then I've gotten hives from fast-paced walking over a long period of time, running, or other forms of working out. I got to a point where I stopped exercising in excess of 30min because it became so uncomfortable. It's nice to finally know I'm not alone here!!

Allergic to exercise?

Nick, Biloxi Mississippi — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 23:21:09 GMT

I call BS on this, the doc in the article even said it herself while beating around the bush like most docs do these days. ITS ALL FOOD ALLERGIES...just cause it doesnt do anything while sitting there doesnt mean its not a food allergy speed up digestion without exercise and i bet they have the same result. This is just gonna be another excuse for fat lazy people to say they cant work out. Give me a break, first we give kids that need a good back hand meds to slow their thinking, now we are giving fat people an excuse not to get off the couch give me a break. Someone fire this reporter!

Allergic to exercise?

Scott Doherty Cape Canaveral, FL — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 00:02:08 GMT

Are you kidding me? Allergic to excercise? That literally means allergy to moving when you don't have to.

Allergic to exercise?

Teri, Headlsburg, CA — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 00:04:55 GMT

This is not about fat, lazy people. I run, lift, swim, bike more than most. I developed this allergy after college (where I played basketball)when I was 25. Before I was diagnosed with EIA I would consistently end up spending the night at the hospital with severe hives...usually after attending a wedding where I would eat then dance. Crazy. I thought I was allergic to marriage..should have rolled with that. Each time I would have a reaction it would be worse than the one before. Ultimately, during one trip to the ER I stopped breathing. That was on Friday, I woke up Sunday in ICU on a respirator. This is no joke. I was sent to an allergist. No food allergies at all. Only after eating does this happen. So, easy answer..don't eat and raise my heart rate within a three hour period. Not so good for hunger pains but I'd rather be hungry than dead. I carry an EPI pen and wear a bracelet. It's no joke and absolutely serious.

Allergic to exercise?

Rochester NY — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 00:27:07 GMT

I was recently diagnosed with Allergy Induced Anaphylaxis. I had a reaction on an Elliptical machine. I had been taking aerobics classes for years & never had a problem. First, my head started to itch, then I felt itchy all over my body & my forearms broke out in hives. After exercising, I had trouble breathing. I had no idea what was going on. I've only had mild reactions since then, mostly hives, but no itching or breathing problems. I think my body may have worked through it.

Allergic to exercise?

RS, Eastern, Washington — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 01:03:10 GMT

I'm 46, and I've had chronic hives and severe asthma 24/7 most of my life. The family joke is being allergic to life. For me it is definitely genetic, and I have an ancestor who ended up in an insane asylum during the height of the initial use of electro- shock treatments, and another one who went through repeated exorcisms because of "The invisible bugs, crawling on their skin and in their bones."
On a good day it averages 4-5 with any excercize upping it to 8-9 on a scale of 1 to 10.
I also have a frightening array of known allergies: foods; chemicals; plants; medications (including most of the steroids and other things used to treat asthma & allergies, all antibiotics and most anesthesia); metals; soaps; perfumes; newspaper print; perspiration; recycled plastics; fluoride; chlorine... with more showing up yearly.
My allergic reactions include: more hives; massive swelling; excema; sunburn-like reddness and peeling; head-to-toe muscle and nerve spasms; migraines; and not breathing...
I currently have to take: Zertec; Benadryl; Claritin; along with Theophylline; Albuterol (both inhaler and nebulizer) every two hours; Flexaril; Oxycodone; Asprin & Oxygen at night. I keep 3 Epi-Pens on hand, because 1 is rarely enough, and average use is 2 a month. I rinse off in a cool shower 8+ times a day and when the itching gets too bad I take a long soak in a tub with strong-brewed black tea & baking soda in the water.
I was allergic to both of my husbands, I have stopped breathing during sex, and have ended up in the hospital from skin contact with others because of medications, soaps, pollens among other things that they were either taking or had been in contact with... I have passed out, thrown up, gone into head-to-toe charley horse spasms scurrying through the plastics or soap sections of Walmart because I was in too much of a hurry to go around.
My style of excercize is a very slow focused blend (my own blend)of TaiChi and Exotic Dance with smooth flowing movement done to tribal/new age music in front of a fan & usually straight out of the shower...
I've had to learn to never allow myself to panic, because panic kills... that I can crawl through the house unable to breathe, and get to the nebulizer (I have 3 set up at all times), inhaler, epi-pen or ice cube tray in whichever order is the quickest. I've learned how to see the humor in my life, even when others can't.
And when I lay down at night or wake up in the morning and every inch itches, burns, tingles or charley horses, I remind myself to breathe and not to scratch.
Probaby the most significant things that allow me to get on with my life in spite of myself, or my circumstances, is that there is always something new to look forward to... a good book, a new song, a funny joke, the smile of friend, the giggle of my roomies' baby, my daughter's voice on the phone, my Mom and I itching together and finding it hilarious, the DEER that licked the back of my neck a few nights ago when I was having an asthma attack (I live in the country) in my back yard after a 108F day...
I continue to find new reasons to take a deep breath and enjoy being alive...

Allergic to exercise?

Jen, Middle GA — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 01:05:38 GMT

WOW. I am so glad to read this article. In order to avoid the hives during a run I make sure that I don't eat within three hours of a workout. I can always feel when it is starting and I makes sure to hop off the treadmill and leave the gym straight away. The hives are really unattractive.
As for the folks who think it is an excuse not to work out, people don't really need an excuse not to work out. If they don't want to they don't have to, simple as that. But I love working out and so I continue to exercise but manage my workout and eating schedule more closely than my gym mates. It is nice to know that I am not some oddity of nature. :-)

Allergic to exercise?

Scott Doherty Cape Canaveral, FL — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 01:08:17 GMT

And yes, I've just defined it. An allergy to excercise is too stupid to print. There may be several factors that decide why you get hives, tingling feeleings (muscles actually working), red in the face (kidding right?), and all other symptoms caused by excercise. I recently ran for the first time in over a decade, I'm 33 and used to run 2 miles in under 12 minutes with regularity. Last week hurt me for 4 days, I couldn't even walk without noticed displeasure. This is because my lazy butt hasn't done crap in a long time, imagine if I never ran before. My muscles were shocked and overworked for the condition they are in, but that's how you get them in condition. You have to punish the muscle and use it more rigorously to make it grow stronger. Have we all dismissed "no pain no gain". For those of you who claim to have been excercising for years and all of a sudden are now infected... I say see a shrink, you're either a hypochondriac (sp?)or just bs'ing.

Allergic to exercise?

Patricia, NY — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 01:30:54 GMT

Wow... Is that what that was?? It only happened to me once, but I was on the elliptical and had just eaten a light shrimp dinner and then while I was exercising broke out in huge hives all over. I was panicked because had no idea what could have caused it. I'm not really allergic to anything usually. Well, there it is! Thanks for handing me the solution to that mystery.

Allergic to exercise?

Carrie, Rochester, NY — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 03:26:45 GMT

I was thrilled to read this article as it describes me perfectly. My allergy is to celery - and exactly as the article says, I can eat it and sit still- no problem. But if I go running after I've eaten celery (or celery seed spice), my face swells to the point that my own husband didn't recognize me as they wheeled me past him on a stretcher on my way into an ambulance b/c my throat was swelling closed! and the hives and itching is intense!

I am not fat, nor lazy and this has not stopped me form exercising. I just read lables now and carry an epi pen.

Allergic to exercise?

Justin, Nampa ID — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 05:55:20 GMT

Cool! After 20 years I finally I have an answer! I was a long distance runner in high school when this first happened to me. For me it is greasy food. I can't do any heavy exercise within about 6 hours of eating anything greasy, so needless to say I stay away from that stuff most of the time. I have discovered though that if I have eaten something that would cause me problems and I still want to go on a run or play basketball I can take Benedryl ahead of time and be just fine. I still run on a regular basis and have done 7 half marathons, so it is just a matter of watching what I eat!

Allergic to exercise?

Justin, Nampa ID — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 06:02:33 GMT

By the way, for those of you who think this is a joke, just be glad you don't have it. I was a long distance runner in high school and this first happned to me my freshman year. After my first race in cross country I broke out in hives and had an asthma attack. I never gave up running though, just figured out what to avoid eating before working out. I ran a 4:40 mile and the 2 mile under 10 minutes, so I am certainly not a slacker. I still run 10K and half marathons on a regular basis. I just know what kind of foods are a problem and avoid them, or take some Benedryl before working out.

Allergic to exercise?

Annette, CA — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 06:17:01 GMT

This is so strange. I do believe it though. There was a co-worker of mine that looked fine one day and when she exercised, not kidding, her face was all broken out. She told me she couldn't exercise for more than 40 minutes otherwise, breakouts would occur. She also had Rosecia. Maybe this is all true with no connections to allergies.

Allergic to exercise?

Annette, CA — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 06:18:26 GMT

Allergic to exercise?

Terri, Bahamas — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 11:58:44 GMT

To those who don't believe that this actually happens you should consider yourself blessed rather than accusing sufferers of being fat and lazy. I have been allergic to peanuts and shellfish since a child, however, I was not diagnosed with exercise induced asthma until in college. It was a relief to finally hear the diagnosis from the doctor, to know that I was not just a slacker and there was a reason why I could not even run 50 yards without my lungs going into spasms. This information may also explain the couple of hive episodes I have had over the years. Thanks to all who shared. Ignore the unbelievers.

Allergic to exercise?

Elux Troxl — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 11:59:17 GMT

Being on an elliptical machine may make you "nauseated", but it won't make you "nauseous". Being nauseated means you feel sick; being nauseous means you make other people feel sick.

Allergic to exercise?

Tami versailles mo — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 13:18:28 GMT

I am 29 years old, and when i take my annual physical training test, (pushup, situps, and my 2 mile run) I get serverly sick,(throwing up none stop for hours), I do not eat before taking the test, but i do drink gadorade, and plenty of water. I was told it was my blood pressure dropping to fast, and a deficiency with my white blood cells, but i think that it might be other factors, I am usually sick for 2 days afterwards, any advice if it might be the same thing that this article is explaining. or could it be the fact that it is this same thing.

Allergic to exercise?

threedayswasthemornin, WPB, FL — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 16:50:20 GMT

I can't believe there are so many of us! Isn't it sad that we all thought we were imperfect snowflakes?

For a long time I abstained from all wheat products so I could run after work but last year I found that wasn't the culprit. No idea what causes mine, but it *seems* to be receding a bit with a concentrated effort to try a little bit of cardio each day, and each day I find I can go a little further before the symptoms roll in. It's really been hard to explain this to other people and they totally think I'm nuts.

Wouldn't it be great if we had some kind of a forum to compare notes? I *love* what exercise does for me when I can actually _do_ it; what a waste to be sidelined due to a silly allergy!

Why don't we have a hub somewhere on the Internet? Is there an EIA foundation I've not heard about? Anyone interested in getting organized? Any docs out there with suggestions?

Allergic to exercise?

JoAnn Austin, Texas — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 17:33:31 GMT

Exercise induced asthma is nothing to laugh about. It actually holds you back from many teen and adult activities. You are a joke to anyone who hasn't seen you on the floor gasping for a breathe. I typically, see stars and pass out. Mall Walking, swimming, yoga, tai Chi and such are still available to us.

Allergic to exercise?

Julie, Pensacola, FL — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 18:07:32 GMT

Those few comments by the ignorant people on stating people just make it up to get out of exercising need a hard slap to the face. I've been an athlete all my life, and was faced with this in my early 20s (after a hard run on the beach) and now 33 carry on Epi-Pen at all times. It is very scary and the swelling happens so quickly you have barely enough time to call for help and/or take a an antihistamine. Get off your high horse and do some research! Do you think all those who have this condition want to be close to death and have to go to the ER just because "you" think we are hypocondriacs?

Allergic to exercise?

Lisa, Cincinnati, OH — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 19:41:47 GMT

I have this too- my trigger food is wheat. I broke out in hives at my wedding when I did the chicken dance after dinner. How sad is that? I keep zyrtec with me now and wait a good 2-3 hours to exercise if I've eaten anything wheat-related. This article validates what I've experienced for the past 10 years.

Allergic to exercise?

Bob Martin, Columbia, MO — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 20:20:11 GMT

I was diagnosed with cholinergic urticaria after breaking out in hives 2 or 3 times in the same year after a run. The doc had me keep track of my eating habits and although it has only happened 3 more times (in a year and a half) since then, there is no correlation between what I have eaten (or even when) and having an episode. Outside temperature, time of year... it's all random. The ONLY thing we can point to is that it happens more when my seasonal allergies are active. Usually a Benadryl fixes the problem and there are no lasting effects.

Allergic to exercise?

Marie M, Bethel, CT — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 20:54:53 GMT

Most of the people who have experienced this allergy seem to be people who regularly exercise. So, those being judgmental and accusing those who have this allergy of being lazy are just plain wrong. I did not read many posts citing this being the reason they do not exercise. Many commented they have experienced these symptoms and sought treatment of one kind or another so they could continue exercising. I have absolutely experienced the itching on my legs and now regularly take my allergy medicine. Also, my face does get extremely red and intense workouts have caused my rosacea to flare up. I have had that treated and continue to exercise.

Allergic to exercise?

Jean Simmons, Indianapolis, IN — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 21:04:52 GMT

A little over six (6) years ago I went on the exercising bike when I broke out with hives on my body from my calves up to my face. Since then it always bothered me. When my body gets heated or I go out in the sun a lot they show up, but if I go in a cool place they disappear. My doctor in New York was never able to see it because his room was always cold. I have seen a dermatologist hear in Indianapolis who prescribed 25Mg Hydroxyzine MCL but I never took in the day because it causes me to get drowsy at work. I have seen another dermatologist who put me on cyproheptadine 4Mg.
This is helping somewhat but itis bloating my stomach. It also makes me drowsy but I only take it when the hives show up. At times I just take one half of the tablet. I doesn't bother me that much. I have been wearing long or three quarter sleeves just to keep the sun off my skin. The times it shows up are when I am stressed, am in a hurry, or when my body gets heated. If the surroundings are cool I am fine. So far the doctor cannot say what is the source of my condition. Walking exercise is Ok for me.
Jean, Indianapolis, IN (Friday, July 18, 2008 5:00pm)

Allergic to exercise?

Jennifer, Dallas, TX — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 22:15:35 GMT

I wish those naysayers were right but if I were looking for an excuse not to exercise, this is not the one I would pick. I could use that one, too, if I truly wanted to. If EIA sufferers didn't exercise, we obviously wouldn't have the problem. I didn't read where one person who says here they have this says they have chosen not to work out because of it. Sounds like we have all found ways to manage it and still keep working out. I've been working out since I was 15 years old. I have a 16 year old son who also is in phenomenal physical shape (he's shown no sign of this allergy), I'm 38 and still run 5 miles a day or bike 15 miles, plus strength, core and flexibility train - AFTER having a partial colonectomy in 2003. To the uneducated and self-righteous who have called us lazy, I think I speak for the majority of EIA sufferers: Wanna race? :-)

Allergic to exercise?

Chuck,TX via Saudi Arabia — Sat, 19 Jul 2008 08:42:23 GMT

For KellyK, TX: While I don't have this particular condition, I do have exercise induced asthma. Can't run more than about 100 yard before breathing is actually painful. Unfortunately no medication helps. Hopefully they'll find a cure someday.
KellyK, TX (Thursday, July 17, 2008 6:26 PM)

I have exactly the same thing. However, I was scratch tested for allergies and found out I'm allergic to dairy, chocolate, and cola. Since I greatly reduced these I've no longer had severe reactions.

Allergic to exercise?

Stronger, Chicago, IL — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 16:28:01 GMT

I find it funny that people would actually post that we are "fat and lazy" because we found that we have a condition WHILE WORKING OUT. We would have never known about this condition if we had not exercised in the first place. Not only that, now that I know I have this problem, I can work out in a way my body accepts and now I'm in the best shape I've ever been in. I'm stronger, faster, more balanced and right where I need to be with my weight now that I know how to exercise properly and take medication to prevent another outbreak.
For those that just don't get it: May you never have to "get it". I wouldn't wish this upon my worst enemy, and right now, just the fact that you were willing to post hurtful and uneducated rants, you're pretty close to that criteria.

Allergic to exercise?

L, Stillwater, MN — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 20:13:17 GMT

First, I must express that I can't believe how quickly people judge. Please think twice before doing that, in all circumstances.

I'm 36 years old and have been running for nearly 25 years. I've run several marathons, half marathons, 10-milers, 5Ks, and 10Ks. I had my first EIA incident in April of 2008. Since then I've had three more, and I can't find a common link between them. I landed in the ER the 1st time it happened, but I'm too embarrassed to go there again. The ER doctor seemed adamant that it was due to my lotion or clothes softener or even "middle-aged psychological stress that women my age often experience", but this article and everyone's comments have really convinced me that it is most likely a case of EIA. It has manifested itself differently each time - hives on my face, neck, trunk, scalp, and legs; swollen and itchy hands and feet (to the point of feeling like I'm going to die, or so swollen I almost could not get the Benadryl out of the blister packs); hot, red, swollen, itchy ears. I've always atrtibuted my frequent post-run dizziness, nausea, stomach cramps, and diarrhea to running, but maybe those have always been signs of the EIA? Anyway, thanks to all for sharing your stories. So far the Benadryl works for me, but it does make me sleepy, too. I like to use that as a good excuse to take a nap and have people leave me in peace and quiet for a while :)

Allergic to exercise?

Rheannon, Fort Collins, Colorado — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 17:07:24 GMT

Wow, nice to know I'm not alone. I just graduated college after running 4 years of track and field in my 4th year of competing I found that suddenly I couldn't keep up with workouts. I started wheezing after long runs. I found out I had EIA I mangaed it with an inhalor just fine. I could still run a good 400 time and was in supurb condition. That next fall I started getting red spots on my hands randomly on days when I'd worked out in the morning. This quickly escalated to hives from head to ankle. I had them everywhere but my feet. Hair, face, legs, it was terrible. I had to stop basically all physical activity cause they had me on so many medications all I could do was eat and sleep. I managed to get it under control I cut all processed foods out of my diet and have begun to work out again. Thank god! Now I can lose the 20 lbs I put on from those horrible steroids. The only medications that have worked for me were allegra and zantac to stop the breakouts. I still have the breakouts occasionally but they are farther between and less severe and I'm working out as hard as ever. Hopefully this will give some people hope.

P.S. To all the people who say I'm fat and lazy or a hypochondriac. Large red welts that other people can see and are so bad they point out to you are not in your head. The fact that I gained 20 pounds and still fit into a normal body fat % and BMI probably means I'm not lazy.

The worst part was the mental anguish of not being able to partake in activities that I enjoyed and had become such a part of my life I was 21 when this first occured and all I could see was me becoming a fat lazy blob because I couldn't bust a sweat without making m body so sick it slept for two whole days. I'm only 23 now and I fell much better but it took 2 whole years and 20 lbs to figure out what worked for me. DON'T GIVE UP!!

Allergic to exercise?

Sarah, Macon, Georgia — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 16:48:20 GMT

WOW, this is a great article! I'm in the military and as soon as I would get done running for PT, my legs would break out in debilitating, painful, itchy hives, so bad I would be in tears. I switched to swimming in place of running and have not since had a problem, but I thought I was unique in this regard. Great to know!

Allergic to exercise?

Fauve, Eugene,Oregon — Sat, 13 Sep 2008 22:05:43 GMT

I just came home today, after having an episode that sounds like what everyone here is talking about. It's something I've noticed over the years but because I don't do aerobic activity on a regular basis, I just tossed it off as a quirky thing. But today, when I got home, there were welts all over my upper right thigh from all the scratching I must have done.

I was diagnosed with a rare lung disease a year and a half ago- Brochiolitis Obliterans and then 9 months later was diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis. The BO and the RA are related.

I'm wondering if EIA is also related to any auto immune issues. Just saying...

Glad to have found this site.

Allergic to exercise?

Lynn Reveal Bellingham, WA — Thu, 18 Sep 2008 22:30:30 GMT

I have had severe itching from knees to waist with brisk walking since I was young. It can proceed to nausea. I have never associated it with food, but I have noticed if I walk nearly every day, it is not a problem. If I haven´t walked in some days, it comes back. It seems that I desensitize myself if I walk every day.

Allergic to exercise?

Nikki Fish — Sat, 20 Sep 2008 15:23:01 GMT

Wow, this is really comforting! I had my first problem when I was about 14 or 15. I was walking around the mall with my mom and broke out into excruciatingly painful hives. Mine however, isn't related to the food I eat. I used to go running in the morning (before I ate breakfast) and would still break out. My doctor diagnosed me with this condition. Now I just take a Zyrtec every day to keep the allergy at bay. It doesn't stop it completely, but it does allow me to still work out for quite a while. I'm so glad I found this article, I feel like I'm not alone!

Allergic to exercise?

Chitraleka Sampathkumar — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 13:16:44 GMT

My Dad used to walk for 45mins in the morning unfortunatly he has relised his lips and one part of face has swelled suddenly... is this is ALLERGIC REACTION?

Allergic to exercise?

phossessy — Thu, 23 Oct 2008 23:57:02 GMT

OK, let me repeat that… I like the way you react to my somber incentive A JOKE! ) How can you have bread if you are on a liquid diet? Drink a toast!! I want to have a good time, Lets speack about something people!

Allergic to exercise?

Angela, Houston, TX — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 19:03:49 GMT

OMG! I am so exited to hear. Now, I don't have towaste a co-pay to go to the doctor tomorrow. For the last 22 years, my thighs would begin to itch, seems like, from the inside out. Then they would turn red and itch on top of my skin. The more I scratched, the more it itched. In high school, my track coach would give me benadryl about 30 minutes before my races and that helped. But now I work out at lunch and can't take Benadryl. I will try claritin.

Allergic to exercise?

LJP, New York — Tue, 02 Dec 2008 02:04:07 GMT

I've always been sensitive to heat, but as soon as I turned 15 I got hives whenever it got hot out. My gym teacher thinks I'm lazy when I say I can't participate in class, and he doesn't believe me when I say I get hives.
Then he made me run a mile for a fitness test, and when he saw my hive-encrusted arms, he finally understood. :]
I found that yoga is a nice alternative, if one still wants to work out with this condition.

Allergic to exercise?

SMF, Vancouver, BC — Sun, 07 Dec 2008 07:33:19 GMT

I have had the itching thighs and legs since I was a child (or pre-teen) and was always told that it was my imagination, or "just my muscles working, work through the pain" but I actually started to want to avoid running and walking long distances, because of the horrible itching pain. I have tried to track hot or cold wether, clothing, etc. but it seems random. I am so glad to hear that I am not crazy. I have eczema and other allergies too.