Most times we find it extremely difficult to get up and get going for a run or a jog. No matter how much one would want to move and lose weight but certain things while exercising like coughing, sneezing, etc could be major deterrents in motivating to head out for a run without much self-convincing. So are you one of those who feels that intense exercise on the treadmill or in the gym make you feel nauseous? Did you ever have the feeling that after a particular workout, you will faint or collapse? This could be a serious issue! Hear this - 35yr-old Sunil went out for a party with his friends and had a few drinks. Next morning to get rid of the hangover, he popped an iBuprofen and went for his workout at the gym. He has never had an issue with alcohol or iBuprofen. But this time was different; this combination caused a life-threatening allergic reaction called Anaphylaxis. Here’s all you need to know from about Anaphylaxis from Dr. Sandeep Patil, Chief Intensivist, Fortis Hospital, Kalyan
Also Read: 8 Common Workout Mistakes You Should Not Make
Allergy to exercise or Anaphylaxis is not a small condition but a severe allergic reaction that needs urgent care and treatment. If you have an anaphylactic reaction, you need an Epinephrine (Adrenaline) shot urgently and emergency medical aid. Left untreated, it can be deadly. So what triggered an anaphylaxis reaction in Sunil?’. Surprisingly, it was the exercise.
Can People Be Allergic To Exercise?
Exercise-Induced Anaphylaxis is a rare condition which can cause hives, fainting, vomiting, and difficulty in breathing. These need immediate medical aid, and the symptoms can last up to four hours after working out. In some cases, it can be triggered by certain foods eaten just before exercise, like Peanuts, shellfish, eggs, or any food item that a person could be allergic to.
In most cases with such allergies occur while running and jogging or any strenuous activities like dancing, volleyball, skiing, and gym exercises. However, there are people who may suffer from the less serious exercise allergy called a Cholinergic Urticaria’ - a common type of heat rash, which differs from Anaphylaxis which starts and ends with the skin reaction. This condition can strike spontaneously; even some marathon runners sometimes come down with a bad case of itches after jogging or running.
Wondering what are the symptoms of exercise-induced allergy? Listed below are some signs that could be an indication of exercise-induced allergy:
- Skin itch
- Swelling below the skin
- Short breath
- Nausea
- Loss of consciousness
- Constant headache while exercising
Also Read: Can’t Exercise? Don’t Worry, Use These Kitchen Ingredients to Lose Weight
How To Exercise And Stay Clear Of These Symptoms?
Unfortunately, the only way to prevent such reactions is that people who may have the tendency to have such a reaction, resort to light workouts. They can change the type of exercise regime they follow in consultation with their doctor. Swimming is said to be a good option as well. It is said that swimming has not been linked with any ‘exercise-induced Anaphylaxis’. Also, it is important to keep track of what food, medicines, etc., works for you before you start your exercise. It is best to not eat anything six to eight hours before exercising. So, the best time for exercise will be morning. Also, avoid working out in extreme weather conditions.
With inputs from Dr. Sandeep Patil, Chief Intensivist, Fortis Hospital, Kalyan
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