Exercising with Allergies

As any allergy sufferer knows, trying to exercise while in the midst of an allergy attack can range from a mild annoyance to a scary situation. Allergy sufferers can experience many different symptoms, ranging from runny eyes and noses, itchiness, coughing, and even breathing difficulties. Such symptoms can make those with allergies worried to begin a workout routine for fear of aggravating the symptoms. However, as a longtime allergy sufferer and exercise fan, I have compiled a list of tips that can help make your workout easier. I'm not a doctor by any means, but these are some suggestions that have helped me work out safely both indoors and out.

Deciding whether you work out indoors or outdoors is a personal choice, though individuals with allergies may choose to work out indoors out of necessity. However, there is hope for those who want to work out outside. If you have allergies to pollen, dust, mold, or any other outdoor irritants, it's best to first check the weather for your area to see if these conditions can affect your allergies. I often check www.weather.com for the pollen alert, especially in the summer. I'd also recommend taking an over-the-counter remedy to help alleviate your symptoms. I use both Allegra and Benadryl for my allergies, though I find Allegra to be a better choice during the day, as Bendryl makes me sleepy.

Besides checking pollen, it's important to do some research about other irritants in the area. A quick search about your hometown online is a great place to start. I also tend to avoid any sort of trails or bike paths if I am working out outdoors, as these often trigger my allergies. The time of the year will also make a big difference as to whether it's best to work out indoors or outdoors. I never do well with the change of seasons, especially hay-fever season (which is prevalent in the summer). During these times, I choose to exercise indoors, as I'd rather be safe than sorry.

If you choose to exercise in a gym, make sure to check the conditions of the facilities first. Feel free to ask the gym for a tour to check cleanliness, and ask how often machines are cleaned. If you have contact dermatitis, you will want to be extra careful to make sure that you clean the machines carefully yourself. You may want to bring in a separate towel for sweating and a separate towel for the machines to minimize the risk of an allergic reaction. Also, if you are concerned about breathing issues, ask the gym how well-staffed the facility is. You might even consider working out in a hospital gym, which is staffed with workers who can monitor health conditions.

As for the actual workout routine, gauge yourself and see what level of intensity is comfortable with you. Before beginning any workout routine, be sure to have an evaluation by your doctor to determine what you should and should not do. These tips have worked for me, though they might not work for everyone. Just make sure to be safe, work out to the best of your abilities, and have fun without letting your allergies get in the way.