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OVERVIEW

Exercise-induced urticaria is an allergic skin reaction brought on by exercise. It generally produces hives and other allergic symptoms. The hives, or welts, are large, raised bumps on the skin. They can occur on any part of the body. They often are redder around the edge than in the middle. Hives also can look like red spots, blotches, or blisters.

SYMPTOMS

Symptoms may occur during or after exercise. Common ones include:

• Hives (large or small)
• Itching of the skin
• Flushing (redness) of the skin
• Difficulty breathing or a choking feeling
• Stomach cramps
• Headache
• Swelling of the face, tongue, or hands

CAUSES

What causes exercise-induced urticaria?

Physical activity can cause some people to have allergic reactions. The exact cause of this condition is unknown.

DIAGNOSIS

How is exercise-induced urticaria diagnosed?

If you notice hives and other symptoms, stop exercising right away. Contact your healthcare provider if the hives do not go away 5 to 10 minutes after exercise. They may look at your symptoms and review your health history. They may order a skin-prick test to check for allergies. Or they may do exercise tests to see if the reaction occurs again.

PREVENTION

Can exercise-induced urticaria be prevented or avoided?

You cannot avoid exercise-induced urticaria. However, you can help prevent flare-ups. Avoid food, products, or types of exercise that trigger hives and other symptoms. Work with your healthcare provider to identify these.

TREATMENT

Medicines, such as antihistamines, can prevent and treat some symptoms.. In severe cases, symptoms may be life-threatening, but this is very rare. If you ever have severe symptoms, your healthcare provider may prescribe a medicine called epinephrine. You inject this medication as soon as symptoms start. It stops the symptoms before they become life-threatening.

Living with exercise-induced urticaria

People who have severe cases may need to avoid exercise all together. Other people may be able to exercise if they avoid triggers. These can include certain types of exercise or foods. Keep track of what you eat before you exercise. If you notice a pattern to your symptoms, stop eating that food. If hives and symptoms also stop, tell your healthcare provider. They probably will tell you to avoid the food. The healthcare provider may tell you not to exercise for 4 to 6 hours after you eat.

Most symptoms can be controlled by taking the medicine your healthcare provider prescribes. Pay close attention to your body and reactions. Slow down or stop exercising as soon as symptoms start. Exercise with a partner who knows about your condition. If you have a history of severe symptoms, carry your EpiPen with you in case of emergency.