It is possible, even desirable, to exercise if you have environmental or seasonal allergies and asthma. You should not attempt exercise in the middle of an allergy attack, however. Occasionally, exercise can provoke exercise-induced anaphylaxis, a dangerous and sometimes life-threatening condition. Follow your medication schedule and take necessary precautions for your condition before exercising to ensure that your experience will be pleasant and free of problems.
Allergies
Allergies are an abnormal response of the immune system. People with allergies have immune systems that react strongly to substances in the environment called allergens. Allergens include mold, grass, ragweed, pollen, dust mites and animal dander. Common allergy symptoms include itching, sneezing, post-nasal drip, watery eyes, rash, and runny or stopped-up nose. Rhinitis, an inflammation of nasal mucous membranes, is often referred to as hay fever. Sinusitis, caused by bacteria, is a sinus infection usually preceded by a cold, allergy or environmental irritation.
Asthma
Asthma affects approximately 20 million Americans with 5,000 asthma-related deaths taking place each year. It is a chronic lung disease caused by inflammation in the airways, which makes breathing difficult. During an asthma attack the muscles surrounding the airways tighten, narrowing them so less air can get through. Common symptoms include wheezing, coughing, tightness in the chest and difficulty breathing.
Exercising with Allergies
According to DrugResource.org, exercising regularly helps contain allergies. Creating a strong blood flow by exercising moves the allergens through the body so they can be eliminated through the kidneys and the skin. Exercise does not have to be challenging or stressful, and walking at a steady pace is preferred. Participating in deep breathing exercises while walking and making sure you are hydrated are important considerations.
People with asthma might want to used an inhaler before exercising to protect against problems. People with hay fever might want to take an antihistamine beforehand.
Exercise-Inducted Anaphylaxis
Anaphylaxis is a severe but rare allergic reaction that involves the entire body. It can be life-threatening. It can cause hives, difficulty breathing, dizziness, low blood pressure, loss of consciousness and even death. Exercise-induced anaphylaxis, or EIA, is poorly understood and unpredictable. It does not occur with each exercise session and sometimes occurs only after eating a specific food or any food. Medication-dependent EIA occurs only after taking a specific medication. Other influences include extreme temperatures, family history of EIA and menstrual period for women. Running, cycling, swimming and sometimes yard work can trigger it.
Exercise Tips for Allergic Conditions
The American College of Sports Medicine offers the following suggestions for exercising. Consult with an allergist regarding an exercise program and take all your medications as prescribed. Breathe through the nose as much as possible to filter out allergens. Exercise indoors during extreme temperatures when allergen counts are high. When exercising outdoors avoid areas with high concentrations of irritants, such as fields, trees, busy highways and factories. Take your asthma medication with you and perform a prolonged aerobic warm-up and cool-down. Postpone exercise if you are having asthma symptoms or a respiratory infection. Running, cycling and basketball are more likely to cause EIA, while resistance training, baseball and swimming are less likely. Persons with EIA should exercise with a partner and always carry injectable epinephrine with them.
