Are You Allergic to Exercise? Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment

Could you be allergic to your exercise routine? From athletes to fitness and exercise gurus, each of us faces the risk of becoming allergic to exercise. We are not referring to the type of "allergy" that results in a general disinterest in your regular exercise routine. What we are referring to is a true allergic reaction to the physical activity.

Allergic reactions to exercise are rare but have become increasingly more common in recent years. With the development of skin irritation, hives and even complications involving tightening of the chest, many individuals experience allergic reactions to exercise without even realizing the exercise induced the complication.

One of the most distinct phenomenon is the induction of anaphylaxis as a result of exercise. While it is not uncommon to experience complications with breathing and respiration, especially when under extreme exercise and fitness routines, it is uncommon to experience anaphylaxis. In many cases of allergic reactions to exercise, the individual experiences syncope and low blood pressure, although this is quite rare.

So, what is the underlying cause of your allergic reaction to exercise and fitness? Your health complication may be attributed to the steps you take before you engage in exercise. For example, in some individuals who use NSAIDs or aspirin before exercise, or in those who eat immediately prior to exercising, the complication of allergic reaction is not uncommon.

The development of hives, in addition to difficult respiration, may also develop and is commonly used as the indicator to determine if exercise allergy is the culprit to the allergic reaction. That is to say, when you are experiencing hives and anaphylactic episodes with exercise, this, alone, is the key factor that your health care professional may rely upon in making the diagnosis.

So, how do you treat exercise allergies? First, it is important to find someone you can exercise with so as to ensure that you are provided prompt medical attention when, or if, the allergic reaction occurs during exercise. Next, your healthcare professional will usually recommend that you avoid eating within six hours of exercise and make special note to avoid such foods as cheese, celery and seafood.

Your healthcare professional may also recommend that you utilize medications that open the airway and prevent constriction when under distress as this may further prevent anaphylaxis and, often, these medications involve inhalers which contain corticosteroids, which can reduce the incidence of rash, hives and swelling.

As with any complication associated with fitness or exercise, the key to your recovery lies in the early diagnosis and treatment. Without diagnosis, your exercise routines may be hazardous to your health and, ultimately, can be treated with a few minor adjustments to your exercise schedule.